Deputy Director General - Regulatory Services
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The Ministry of Health - Manatū Haora is the lead advisor to the Government on health and is responsible for ensuring the health system meets the current and future needs of all New Zealanders. It fulfils this role through three separate functions: policy development to enable the government to set health system priorities, regulation and rule design to protect public health and safety, and monitoring the performance of the health system.
The Ministry's leadership of the health system is characterised by an integrated, future-focused approach to regulation, aimed at improving governance, risk management, and regulatory practice. It oversees 14 regulatory regimes that vary in scope, from approving medicines and certifying health services to regulating the health workforce. This function is critical to ensuring public safety and quality across the health system.
The Deputy Director-General, Regulatory Services role offers an opportunity to influence public health outcomes at scale through effective governance and system leadership. It is responsible for providing strategic leadership and oversight of regulatory systems, ensuring they are effective, trusted and aligned with Government priorities.
If appointed, you will lead a high-impact group of approximately 150 staff. You will champion a modern, risk-based regulatory approach that upholds public safety through effective regulation of health services, providers, and therapeutic products. Representing the Ministry domestically and in international fora, you will provide trusted advice to Ministers, while ensuring the health sector's regulatory frameworks are robust and future-focused.
The following capabilities are also sought:
* Deep experience across all facets of the regulatory spectrum
* An authentic people leader with proven capability to build high performing teams
* Strong political acumen and the ability to operate in complex, dynamic environments
* Capacity to think and operate across systems and sectors
* Ability to work effectively with multiple stakeholders
* Exceptional communication, influencing and relationship management skills
* A collaborative approach to working with executive colleagues
* Commitment to improving health outcomes for all New Zealanders.
This role is based in Wellington.
Confidential enquiries and applications should be directed to Vishnu Nair or Guy Brew at Ichor Leadership Search by 5.00pm on Friday 28 November 2025. Contact us via email at search@ichor.co.nz or call +64 4 499 8230 .
Your application will include the following questions:
* Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in New Zealand?
* How would you rate your English language skills?
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