Programme Manager, Performance and Improvement, Waikato

• Waikato Hospital
• Permanent – 80 hours per fortnight

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

The Programme Manager, Performance & Improvement works with the Group Director Operations (Waikato District) and the regional Performance & Improvement team to drive district performance, improvement initiatives, and organisational capability. The role supports high‑quality, sustainable healthcare delivery through strong performance frameworks, evidence‑based insights, and effective cross‑sector collaboration.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Oversee district performance through planning, analysis, and reporting.
• Embed organisational performance mechanisms, including planning cycles and accountability frameworks.
• Support the GDO with delivery of service priorities and priority improvement initiatives.
• Coordinate benchmarking, monitor performance trends, and support continuous improvement actions.
• Provide timely, consistent advice on district performance, health targets, and sustainability outcomes.

Click here to view the position description.

About the Team

This role reports directly to the Group Director of Operations, Waikato District and will be a key member of the Waikato District Leadership Team. The role is based at Waikato Hospital.

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 role, you will bring extensive experience in organisational performance within the health sector and a strong ability to lead improvement activity across complex environments. You will have:

• 10+ years’ experience in monitoring and improving organisational performance within the health sector, supported by relevant graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
• Expertise in strategic thinking and future‑focused planning, including experience leading planning processes at both regional and district levels.
• Proven ability to develop and implement governance and accountability frameworks that drive improved performance and operational outcomes.
• Strong stakeholder and relationship management skills, including demonstrated experience working with Māori and Pacific groups and applying Te Tiriti o Waitangi in action.
• Experience leading highly skilled clinical and operational teams in multifaceted, fast‑paced environments.
• The ability to translate complex technical and financial data into clear insights, supporting robust planning, performance monitoring, and confident communication with senior executives and key decision makers.

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 19 April 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Robyn Payne at Robyn.Payne@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz

Please note: we strongly advise applying for this role within two weeks of posting, as we will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.