Operations Manager - Pathology

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.Health New Zealand| Te Whatu Ora Waitemata is the largest District in New Zealand providing services to a population of more than 650,000 and employing more than 8,000 people.

Our organisation values and promise statement Best Care for Everyone - serve to inspire us to continuously improve to provide the best care possible to each and every person and their family.About the roleAre you ready to lead operational excellence in one of Aotearoa\'s most critical diagnostic services?

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Operations Manager to lead the Surgical Pathology service at Te Whatu Ora Waitemata.

This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality, timely, and patient-centred pathology services across our hospitals.As the Operations Manager, you will work closely with clinical leaders, SMOs, laboratory scientists, and administrative teams to drive performance, innovation, and continuous improvement.

You'll be responsible for managing resources, optimising workflows, and supporting the delivery of safe and efficient diagnostic services that underpin surgical and medical care.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the operational management of Surgical Pathology services across Waitemata.

Collaborate with clinical and scientific teams to ensure service excellence and compliance with national standards.Drive service improvement initiatives, including digital transformation and process optimisation.Manage budgets, workforce planning, and performance reporting.Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.About YouPrevious experience working in a laboratory or diagnostic environment, with a strong understanding of clinical workflows.Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex workflows and competing priorities.Proven network leadership experience, with the ability to influence across services and disciplines.Strong track record in managing KPIs, including turnaround time, quality metrics, and service performance.Formal training or practical experience in Six Sigma or other quality improvement methodologies.Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and change management skills.This role offers a clear pathway for professional growth within Te Whatu Ora.

As an Operations Manager, you'll gain exposure to strategic planning, service development, and cross-network collaboration positioning you for future leadership roles within hospital operations, clinical services, or regional service management.

We actively support leadership development through mentoring, and access to training programmes focused on operational excellence and health system transformation.Why Join Us?

Te Whatu Ora Waitemata is committed to delivering the best care for everyone.

You'll be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values innovation, teamwork, and professional growth.

This is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a service that plays a vital role in patient diagnosis and treatment.Working at Health New ZealandHealth 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 Maori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.How to ApplyTo apply please click apply now.

If you have any questions about the recruitment process, please contact Glenn Bratton, Recruitment Manager on

• Island - Auckland - North Shore / West Auckland

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