Clinical Lead – Primary Care

Grading: Medical Officer

Number of positions: 1

Job Hours: Fixed-term, part-time role

Required qualifications: The ideal candidate will have experience in, or a strong passion for, clinical governance.

  • Based in Westport/Buller and Northern areas
  • Lead with Purpose on the West Coast
  • An opportunity to influence real change

Imagine shaping the future of healthcare in one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking and close-knit communities. From rugged coastlines to untamed wilderness, the West Coast offers a lifestyle that’s rich in connection, adventure, and meaning.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora – Te Tai o Poutini West Coast is seeking an experienced and passionate Clinical Lead to help drive clinical excellence across our primary care services.

About the role

This is more than a leadership role – it’s an opportunity to influence real change.

As Clinical Lead, you will work in close partnership with professional and operational leaders to set the clinical vision for primary care across the Coast. You will play a pivotal role in strengthening clinical governance, lifting quality standards, and ensuring seamless integration between primary and secondary care.

You will be part of a highly collaborative Clinical Leadership team, contributing to strategic direction, supporting innovation, and building strong, enduring partnerships across the health system.

What you will be doing:

  • Champion clinical governance and continuous quality improvement across primary care
  • Lead and influence best practice to deliver safe, high-quality, equitable care
  • Strengthen integration between primary and secondary services across the district
  • Build trusted relationships with stakeholders across the Coast and wider health system
  • Mentor and empower clinicians, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence

Who we are looking for

You will be a respected senior doctor who brings both credibility and heart to leadership.

The ideal candidate will have the following:

  • Experience in, or a strong passion for, clinical governance
  • Proven ability to lead, influence, and deliver high-quality healthcare outcomes
  • A collaborative approach with the ability to bring people together
  • An appreciation for the unique opportunities and challenges of rural healthcare
  • A commitment to equity, inclusion, and improving health outcomes for all communities

Why the West Coast?

This is a place where your work truly matters. You will be part of a tight-knit community, where relationships are strong, your impact is visible, and your lifestyle can thrive outside of work.

Whether it’s tramping, fishing, surfing, or simply enjoying space and nature – the Coast offers a lifestyle that’s hard to match.

If you are ready to make a meaningful impact and help shape the future of healthcare on the West Coast, we would love to hear from you!

How to apply

To apply please click ‘apply now’. All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal by Friday, 4 September 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Amy Walker, Recruitment Specialist amy.walker@tewhatuora.govt.nz

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

We only accept online applications. Please apply via our website.

To apply for this job please visit jobs.tewhatuora.govt.nz.

Have any questions?

Vacancy contact details

Name: Amy Walker

Position: Recruitment Specialist

Email: amy.walker@tewhatuora.govt.nz

Phone: -