Principal Analyst Team Lead - Surveillance - Intelligence - NPHS

• Lead regional public health surveillance and build analytical capability across the motu
• Location: Any public health office
• Permanent, Full-Time

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

We are seeking a Principal Analyst Public Health Surveillance to join the Surveillance function of the National Public Health Service (NPHS) Intelligence Directorate. This is a permanent, full-time role with a focus on enhancing and delivering regional surveillance across the motu.

This is a unique opportunity to lead and shape surveillance analysis across the motu in a regional focused work programme, while contributing to national public health intelligence priorities. You'll work alongside regional stakeholders to provide timely, relevant, and actionable surveillance insights, and play a key role in mentoring analysts across the region. As a Team Lead you will also manage the day-to-day functions of a team of experts.

As a Principal Analyst Team Lead you will:

• Lead surveillance analysis for the NPHS regions, ensuring high-quality, timely public health intelligence for regional and national use.
• Provide high-level technical leadership, coaching and mentoring of junior analysts, and set standards for excellence in data interpretation, visualisation, and reporting.
• Offer expert analysis of surveillance data, contributing to both operational response and strategic insight.
• Partner in the design and uplift of new or evolving surveillance systems, ensuring they are fit-for-purpose and intelligence-led.
• Support the delivery of proactive, high-impact public health intelligence that informs decision-making across the motu.

About the Team/Service/ Location

The NPHS within Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora, work towards Pae Ora (healthy futures) for all by engaging with the wider determinants that impact people's health, focusing on oranga/wellbeing, prevention, protection, and population-level intervention. We are connected across boundaries to deliver public health services that are nationally planned, regionally delivered and locally tailored.

About you

You are someone with a broad familiarity with coding in data analysis tools with a deep expertise in at least one recognised analysis tool. Has current knowledge in relevant emergent technologies, and of trends in industry and public health thinking You're equipped with strong communication skills, with experience in using data storytelling and translating complex and technical information into clear and understandable language for non-technical audiences. You feel comfortable working in fast-paced and variable work environments. You're able to apply critical thinking and use sound judgement to develop options, effectively communicate them, and provide valuable advice.

• You bring a rare mix of technical depth, public health understanding, and leadership skill.
• 10–15 years' experience with relevant qualifications in statistics, epidemiology, public health, data science, or similar.
• Proven leadership in public health surveillance, with experience guiding teams and building capability in applied analysis.
• Deep expertise in at least one recognised analytical tool (e.g., R, Python, SQL) and familiarity with others.
• Experience applying surveillance insights to inform real-world public health action, response, or planning.
• Strong understanding of emerging analytical technologies and evolving public health intelligence methods.
• Excellent communication skills with a proven ability to turn complex data into compelling stories for diverse audiences.
• Experience engaging stakeholders across agencies and disciplines to co-design and deliver high-quality public health products.

Working for 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 Sunday 25 May 2025. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Anesha Pillay via Anesha.pillay@tewhatuora.govt.nz

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