Principal Analyst Data Governance

• Permanent Full-time role based in Auckland or Wellington
• Provide expert advice to senior governance forums and drive organisation-wide data governance initiatives
• Make a meaningful, system-wide impact by shaping how data is used to improve health outcomes and equity for all New Zealanders

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

This is a pivotal leadership role at the centre of Aotearoa New Zealand's health system, shaping how data is governed, accessed, and used to improve outcomes for all New Zealanders.

As a senior data governance specialist, you will lead the development and implementation of Health NZ's Data Governance Framework, ensuring the safe, ethical and effective use of data in delivering Te Pae Waenga and achieving national Health Targets. You'll oversee complex data access and sharing requests, guide enterprise-wide governance initiatives, and provide secretariat support and trusted advice to key forums including the Health Data and Analytics Council and Data Governance Group.

Working across a large and evolving organisation, you'll champion best practice, strengthen information sharing standards, and embed robust governance that supports innovation while managing risk. You'll also play a key role in building a connected data governance community and fostering strong relationships across Health NZ, Manatū Hauora, and international partners.

About the Team

You'll be part of a forward-thinking, collaborative team at the heart of Health NZ's data and digital ecosystem. The team is focused on enabling high-quality, trusted data to support better decision-making, improved health outcomes, and system-wide performance.

We work closely with clinical, operational, and digital leaders across the organisation, as well as with the Hauora Māori Service and Pacific Health teams, to ensure data governance reflects the aspirations and needs of the communities we serve. Our environment encourages innovation, shared learning, and continuous improvement, with a strong emphasis on equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

About you

You're an experienced and influential data governance professional who can operate confidently at a senior level within a complex organisation.

You will bring:

• At least five years' experience in senior data governance roles, ideally within large or public sector organisations
• Strong knowledge of data governance frameworks, privacy, ethics, legislation, and social licence
• A deep understanding of data sovereignty, including Māori data sovereignty, and its practical application
• Proven ability to manage complex data access and sharing scenarios with sound judgement and integrity
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to translate complex concepts for diverse audiences
• Resilience and strong influencing skills, with a track record of building consensus and driving change
• Proven organisational skills and willingness to provide the secretariat function for governance groups
• Excellent relationship management skills and a collaborative, system-wide mindset

You'll also demonstrate a genuine commitment to equity and improving Māori and Pacific health outcomes, alongside an appreciation for the opportunities that data, AI and emerging technologies bring to the health system.

Experience within the health sector or an understanding of government processes will be highly regarded.

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 11:59PM Sunday 3 May 2026. For further information, please contact Lynda Francis on lynda.francis@tewhatuora.govt.nz

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

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