Project Capability Manager

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is the country's largest employer, delivering universal public healthcare to 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 Project Capability Manager for the Central Region, you will lead the sourcing, management, and development of project and programme resources within the Infrastructure and Investment Group (IIG). This role ensures that all construction programmes and projects are effectively staffed with the right people at the right time. You'll oversee workforce planning, recruitment, capability development, and contractor management, while embedding best practice project management standards and supporting change initiatives.

This is a key leadership role requiring strong technical expertise, strategic thinking, and the ability to foster a high-performing, collaborative culture. You'll work closely with Programme and Project Directors to ensure resource capability aligns with organisational priorities and supports successful delivery of complex health infrastructure projects.

About the Team / Service / Location

The IIG Central team are focused on delivering high impact infrastructure investments that support the transformation of New Zealand's health system within region and with alignment across the motu. The team is distrubted across the central region primarily at HNZ hospital sites in Wellington, Wairarapa, Manawatu and Hawkes Bay.

Giving support, oversight and assurance across projects and programmes, the team understand that safe, fit for purpose health facilities, sites and equipment are essential for a well-functioning health system that improves the health of all New Zealanders.

The preferred location for the role is Wellington and travel across the Central region to HNZ locations will be required. We will consider applicants from other locations within the Central region that are willing to travel regularly.

About you

You're a confident and inclusive leader who inspires trust and brings out the best in people. You thrive in complex environments, balancing strategic vision with practical delivery, and you know how to build strong, capable teams that deliver results. You embrace change and innovation, creating a culture where continuous improvement and fresh ideas are encouraged.

You value diversity, ensuring every voice is heard and respected. Your collaborative approach fosters unity across teams and stakeholders, while your ability to influence at all levels from frontline staff to senior leaders ensures projects run smoothly.

Most importantly, you care. You're not just here to deliver buildings – you're here to help shape a health system that delivers better outcomes for communities. You actively contribute to a positive team environment, consistently embodyng the values of Health NZ in your work. You understand that how you lead is just as important as what you deliver and you take pride in fostering a collaborative, inclusive and purpose-driven workplace.

You Will Bring

• A 4-year undergraduate degree in a construction-related discipline (postgraduate qualifications in construction, project management, or business preferred).
• 10–15 years' experience managing complex projects and programmes, including at least 10 years leading large project teams.
• Expertise in project management methodologies (e.g., PRINCE2, PMI CAP) and PMO environments.
• Proven ability to recruit, mentor, and develop project management resources.
• Strong cultural competence and understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and influencing skills

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 2nd December 2025. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Shannon Elder at

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

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

Job details

Job Reference : HNZ /

Location :

North Island - Wellington - Wellington Central

Job type : Permanent Full time

Expertise :

Non-clinical - Project Manager - Project Manager

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