Operations Director - Medicine and OPR Services

• Waikato Hospital
• Permanent – 80 hours per fortnight
• An exciting opportunity to lead and manage services providing quality health care to patients across the Emergency Department, Medicine and Older Persons Rehabilitation (OPR) Services.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

Based at Waikato Hospital, you will have overall responsibility and accountability for the operations and performance of the Directorate which includes Waikato Hospital Emergency Department, Internal Medicine and Older Persons Rehabilitation.   You will work collectively with your peers, within and across the support functions, to support the whole of Hospital and Specialist Services to achieve the outcomes in the best interests of our community.

The Directorate supports the Waikato District population as well as providing tertiary health services for the greater Te Mawa Taki (Midland region).

This role reports to the Group Director Operations, Waikato and is a key member of the Waikato Hospital and Specialist Services leadership team.

Click here to view the position description.

About Hamilton

Waikato Hospital is a major regional hospital in Hamilton and is a leading tertiary teaching hospital located in Hamilton, New Zealand, serving as the regional hub for the Midland area, which includes the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Lakes, Tairawhiti, and Taranaki districts. With around 722 inpatient beds, 22 operating theatres, and a dedicated outpatient clinic and procedure centre, Waikato Hospital provides comprehensive hospital services, including radiology, laboratory, and pharmacy. As a major teaching hospital with affiliations to the University of Auckland, University of Waikato, and Wintec, it offers a dynamic learning environment and access to research opportunities. The hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities located on the Waiora Waikato Hospital Campus, with both road and air ambulance support.

Hamilton, where Waikato Hospital is situated, is a vibrant city nestled alongside the scenic Waikato River, offering a perfect mix of nature and culture. Explore the stunning Hamilton Gardens, home to themed gardens from Italy to Asia, or visit the Waikato Museum to delve into the region's rich history. The city also boasts the Hamilton Zoo, where you can walk through an aviary filled with native birds. Hamilton is a lively hub, with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars, along with events like rugby, cricket, and the famous National Agricultural Fieldays and Balloons over Waikato festival. With its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to outdoor adventures, Hamilton is an ideal place to live and work.

For more information on living and working in Waikato click here

About you

To be successful in this position you will need to demonstrate:

• Proven experience of working within a large secondary or tertiary hospital.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage with others and provide clear direction..
• ‘Can do’ attitude and ability to problem solve.
• Ability to work and respond in a dynamic fast-paced hospital environment.
• Ability to work collaborative across the wider hospital to support and improve patient flow.
• Proven experience in emergency and/or incident management.
• Experience in working collaboratively with other sectors, such as NZ Police.

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 online” or apply via our Waikato Careers website by clicking here.

 All applications must be submitted through our online careers’ portal before 11:59 pm on 26 February 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Rachael Devey at Rachael.Devey@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advert. 

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