System Design Manager, Integrated Rural Health

• Permanent, full-time role based anywhere in New Zealand
• Lead national system and service redesign that improves health outcomes for rural communities

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is the country's largest employer, delivering universal public healthcare to 5 million New Zealanders.

We provide essential hospital, specialist, and community health services across 80+ locations — from large urban centres to rural towns and remote communities.

Our goal is to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders by delivering equitable, accessible and innovative care.

About the Role

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of rural health and lead the design of innovative systems and services that improve outcomes for rural communities. As a senior member of the Rural Health team, you'll use your system design and commissioning expertise to develop and implement solutions that deliver equitable and sustainable care — with a strong focus on improving Māori health and eliminating inequities.

You'll join a passionate, collaborative national team working at the heart of system reform. Together, we're building a more connected and equitable health system where everyone, no matter where they live, can access high-quality care and support.

As a System Design Manager - Integrated Rural Health, you'll be the senior strategic lead for rural system and service redesign. You'll work closely with commissioning teams, Hauora Māori, Pacific Health, and service development colleagues to co-design and implement new models of care that respond to the needs and aspirations of rural communities.

You'll lead national commissioning processes, contribute to service and funding reviews, and develop outcome and performance measures that ensure accountability and continuous improvement. Central to your work will be strong relationships — collaborating across the sector with providers, clinicians, community leaders, and whānau to achieve better, more equitable health outcomes.

About you

As a System Design Manager - Integrated Rural Health, you bring strong leadership, systems thinking, and relationship management skills, alongside extensive experience in service design and commissioning.

You will have:

• A relevant graduate and postgraduate qualification
• 5-10 years' experience in system or service design and implementation, ideally in the health or public sector
• Proven commissioning experience, including procurement, contracting, and performance management
• Demonstrated experience partnering with Māori, Pacific and rural communities to co-design services that meet local needs
• A deep understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment to advancing Māori health equity

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

To apply, please click "apply now."  All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal by 11:59PM Sunday 11 January 2026. For further information, please contact Nicole Rickard on

Due to the December holiday period, this advert will remain open for an extended duration. Screening and interviews will commence from mid-January. We appreciate your patience and look forward to connecting with you in the new year.

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected kaimahi will be given preference and priority for this position.