Chief Psychologist

• Specialised role in the Health and Clinical Services leadership team
• Ensure Tamariki and rangatahi have the appropriate clinical care.
• Permanent role can be based at any of our regional offices.

Mō mātou | About us

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do. In our work, we aim to demonstrate these values:

• We put Tamariki first
• We believe Aroha is vital
• We respect the Mana of people
• We are Tika and Pono
• We value Whakapapa
• We recognise that Oranga is a journey

We are committed to ensuring that New Zealand is the best place in the world to be a child. We are also committed to ensuring Oranga Tamariki partners with hapū, iwi and Māori organisations to find appropriate solutions for tamariki in need.

Mō te tūnga | About the role

The Chief Psychologist is a newly created position set up to provide leadership and oversight of the psychology and therapy workforce within Oranga Tamariki and provide leadership of the design and delivery of psychological services. The position reports to the General Manager Health and Clinical Services and is part of the Health and Clinical Services leadership team.

You will provide advice and support to leaders across Tamariki and Whānau Services and Youth Justice Services and Residential Care for complex care management and concerns regarding high risk. You will also provide strategic leadership and advice on mental health and other psychological matters across the organisation.

This role can be based in any of our regional offices.

Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bring

Key requirements of the role include:

• Applicants must be registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board
• Masters or Doctoral degree in psychology
• A post graduate qualification in Clinical or Child and Family Psychology or relevant practice experience with Tamariki and rangatahi with complex needs, and evidence of study/training in this area
• At least ten years' experience as a psychologist
• At least five years' experience in clinical leadership or management roles
• Experience working with Tamariki, rangatahi and adults who have experienced abuse, neglect and trauma
• Experience working with Tamariki and rangatahi with complex mental health challenges
• Experience in leading and implementing service improvements
• A strong understanding of the social and political environment in which Oranga Tamariki operate
• A clean, current driver's licence is essential and a willingness to drive the Ministry's vehicles.
• Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga Māori, and Pacific peoples' culture

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Oranga Tamariki offer a step-based remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. We offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Apply online with your CV and Covering Letter. A strong cover letter should complement your CV by telling a compelling story about why you're the right fit for the role, why you want the role, why Oranga Tamariki and to and what you bring.

If you are an Oranga Tamariki employee already, please ensure you apply with a log in using your Oranga Tamariki email address.

Hurry as applications for this role close at midnight on 27 October 2025

However, we will be reviewing applications and inviting candidates to interview prior to this date, so apply now

If you are interested in any of our vacancies, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.