Programme, Contract & Performance Lead

Palmerston North Hospital, Permanent Fulltime
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.
Are you a strategic leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about putting patients and whānau first?


About the Role
We're looking for a Programme Contract and Performance Lead to head our small, high-performing team of programme and contract managers.
This is a pivotal role where you'll lead the team in supporting the wider business to deliver on key priorities.

You'll be someone who's not afraid to roll up your sleeves, pivot quickly, and drive results with integrity and purpose.
What you'll do:
* Lead and mentor a team of programme and contract managers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
* Oversee the development, management, and performance monitoring of key programmes and contracts.
* Partner across the organisation to ensure delivery aligns with strategic goals and meets the needs of our communities.
* Be a “completer-finisher” – someone who sees things through, ensures quality outcomes, and adapts quickly when needed.
What you'll bring:
* Proven leadership experience in programme or contract management, ideally within health or public sector environments.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on outcomes and performance.
* Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
* A patient and whānau-centred approach to everything you do.
* A flexible, can-do attitude and the ability to lead through change.
Why join us?
* Lead a supportive, collaborative team that values initiative and integrity.
* Play a key role in shaping health service delivery and outcomes for our region.
* Enjoy the lifestyle and community of Palmerston North while making a meaningful impact.
Ready to lead with purpose?

Apply now and help us deliver better health outcomes for our communities.
About the Team/Service
Employing over 2500 people, MidCentral offers a supportive work environment that accepts and values all employees.

We actively seek Māori kaimahi into our workforce and provide an environment which delivers our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
MidCentral region offers an excellent lifestyle for families with scenic spots for hiking and mountain-biking, great schools and tertiary institutions.

With the mountains, city and sea at your doorstep, you'll get to taste the best of both worlds – the perfect blend of rural and city living.
About the Location
Manawatū offers the perfect blend of city convenience and rural charm.

Whether you're drawn to peaceful village life, vibrant townships, or the buzz of the city, you'll find your ideal lifestyle here.

It's a family-friendly region that's easy to live in and even easier to love.

The region is also home to excellent schools and two tertiary institutions: Massey University and the International Pacific College.
Outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choice—beaches, ski fields, lakes, and mountains are all within reach, along with fantastic hiking and mountain biking tracks.

With no traffic and a short commute to work, achieving true work-life balance is the everyday reality.
Our central location makes it easy to explore the rest of New Zealand, whether you're heading off on a road trip or catching a short flight.
For more information on living and working in the Manawatu click here
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 the advertised date.
For enquiries about this role, please contact Lee Welch, Group Manager – Business Performance and Support Services, at lee.welch@midcentraldhb.govt.nz.


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