Service Manager, Perioperative Services

• Permanent, full-time role based at Whangārei Hospital
• Lead a vital perioperative service that directly impacts patient access, surgical outcomes, and operational excellence across Te Tai Tokerau
• Senior leadership opportunity with broad service oversight, strategic influence, and the ability to drive meaningful improvements for patients, whānau, and staff

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

As the Service Manager, you will provide operational leadership across a diverse portfolio of perioperative services, working in partnership with the General Manager, Nurse Unit Manager, Clinical Directors, and multidisciplinary teams to deliver high quality, patient-centre care.

This is a highly influential leadership role responsible for the operational, financial, and strategic management of key perioperative functions including Anaesthesia, Anaesthetic Technicians, Elective Coordination, Surgical Booking Clerks, Pre-assessment, Central Sterilising Unit (CSU), and theatre support services. You will lead service improvement initiatives, support the achievement of performance targets, oversee resource management, and ensure services are delivered efficiently, safely, and sustainably. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced healthcare leader to shape the future of perioperative services and improve health outcomes across Northland.

Click here to view the position description.

About the Team/Service/Location

Surgical and Perioperative Services play a critical role in supporting safe, efficient surgical care for the people of Te Tai Tokerau. Based at Whangārei Hospital, this service works closely with clinical teams, support services, and external providers to ensure patients receive timely access to high quality perioperative care.

Northland offers an exceptional lifestyle with beautiful coastlines, a welcoming community, and a unique opportunity to make a significant impact within New Zealand’s health sector.

For more information on living and working in Northland click here

About you

As an experienced healthcare leader, you will bring a strong track record of operational management and service improvement within a complex healthcare environment.

• Appropriate tertiary qualification, with a postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline desirable
• Proven senior management experience within healthcare, including staff, financial, and change management responsibilities
• Strong financial planning, business management, and performance monitoring skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, build positive working relationships, and influence at all levels
• Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment to achieving equitable health outcomes for Māori and all communities we serve

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 13 September 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Michelle Apetera at NL-Jobs@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz

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