Operations Manager – Rural Inpatients & Transalpine Service


  • Rare leadership opportunity based in Greymouth
  • Opportunity to support and drive our strategy within a rural setting

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

Operations Manager – Rural Inpatients & Transalpine Services

1.0 FTE | West Coast

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora – West Coast is seeking an experienced and motivated Operations Manager – Rural Inpatients & Transalpine Services to provide strategic and operational leadership across a diverse and critical portfolio of services.

Based on the West Coast, this senior leadership role is responsible for the day‑to‑day operational management of rural inpatient and outpatient services covering inpatient, outpatient, perioperative and diagnostic services.  It not only includes services directly provided by the West Coast but also partners with other districts that provide services for our population, either locally or at a distance.  The West Coast is a leader in rural health services and, as part of the senior leadership team, you will be expected to work with clinical leadership around implementing our rural strategy within your operational area.  You will also work closely with clinical and operational leaders to deliver safe, high‑quality, patient‑centred care for our communities.

About the role

In this role, you will:

  • Provide strong leadership across rural inpatient and transalpine services, fostering a “one team” approach to care
  • Lead and support multidisciplinary clinical and operational teams to conintue to look at improving how we provide care for our communities
  • Partner closely with clinical leaders, locality managers, and transalpine service providers to ensure integrated, sustainable service delivery that is aligned to our rural strategy
  • Oversee operational performance, workforce resourcing, financial management, and service planning
  • Ensure services meet quality standards, health targets, and organisational objectives
  • Champion culturally safe practice and equity, recognising Māori as tangata whenua

About you

We are looking for someone who brings:

  • A relevant tertiary qualification (postgraduate management qualification desirable)
  • Extensive senior management experience, ideally within health or a complex service environment
  • Proven capability in operational leadership, financial management, workforce planning, and change management
  • A passion for rural health services and the rural communities we serve
  • Strong relationship‑building and communication skills, with the ability to work across clinical, operational, and community settings
  • An understanding of the New Zealand health system and a commitment to equity and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Why join us?

  • Make a meaningful impact on healthcare delivery for West Coast communities
  • Lead diverse services in a unique rural and transalpine environment
  • Be part of a committed, values‑driven organisation focused on patient‑centred care

If you are an experienced operational leader looking for a rewarding role with real community impact, we would love to hear from you.

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 closing date.

If you have any questions about the role, please contact Lily Simons lily.simons@tewhatuora.govt.nz

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

 

 

Apply now

Permanent/Full Time

Job no: DIAL6251636

Location: Greymouth

Closing Date: Friday, 8 May 2026