Head of Industrial Relations

• Wellington or Auckland (flexible for the right candidate)
• Strategic influence. National impact. Meaningful purpose.
• Shape how we value and engage those who care for New Zealand or
• Join us to shape the future of industrial relations across New Zealand's health system

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is the country's largest employer, delivering universal public healthcare to 5 million New Zealanders. 

We provide essential hospital, specialist, and community health services across 80+ locations - from large urban centres to rural towns and remote communities. 

Our goal is to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders by delivering equitable, accessible and innovative care. 

About the Role 

As New Zealand's largest employer, Health New Zealand (HNZ) relies on strategic leadership that builds trust and connection to shape a workplace where people thrive and health outcomes improve. The Head of Industrial Workplace Relations is central to this mission.

We are seeking a strategic leader who builds trust across unions, government, and the health sector, and who navigates complexity with courage, clarity, and collaboration.

As a trusted advisor to the Health NZ Board and Chief Executive, the Head provides expert guidance on industrial relations, remuneration, and negotiation strategy. This includes leading complex bargaining processes, designing fiscally responsible employment frameworks, and ensuring alignment with HNZ's operational and financial priorities.

Success in this role depends on building constructive, enduring relationships with unions representing HNZ employees. Through positive engagement, the Head helps shape agreements that reflect the needs of our workforce and support the delivery of high-quality, efficient healthcare.

About you 

As the Head of Industrial Workplace Relations, you will be responsible for leading the strategic direction of one of New Zealand's most complex and essential workforces. This is a role where people, purpose and policy meet to create a sustainable workforce.

You will bring:

• Executive-level background in large, public-facing and multi-faceted environments with diverse stakeholder interests
• Extensive and deep experience in industrial relations, remuneration frameworks, and workforce strategy
• Experience in leading negotiations across large, unionised and high stakes- environments
• Strong political and organisational acumen, with the ability to balance competing pressures with integrity
• Strategic leadership, with effective communication, negotiation
• Experience in building trusted and respected relationships with unions and government agencies
• Proficient in navigating complex situations using clear and collaborative approaches
• Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and promoting equity in the workplace

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, 23 November. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Matt Kelly at matt.kelly@tewhatuora.govt.nz 

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