Perinatal Wellbeing Service Manager

He huanui oranga mo ngā mokopuna whakatipuranga roto i ngā hapori heke iho, heke iho - Setting the path of wellness in our communities for the early years, for generations to come

We support māmā, pāpā and whānau during one of life’s most transformative journeys. We’re looking for a Service Manager to lead our new online mental health service, to help usestablish a service that truly meets the needs of our communities.

This is a 0.8 FTE role fixed term until early 2027. While the service is aimed towards whānau in Waikato, we are open to hearing from candidates who are aligned to this mahi with the ability to travel from time to time.

Te Whiwhinga Mahi | The Opportunity

In 2026, we will be piloting a new online service for whānau in the Waikato region providing support for whānau experiencing mild to moderate perinatal mental health challenges.

You’ll play a pivotal role in providing operational and clinical leadership for this new service.You’ll bring your leadership skills and solution-focused mindset to:

• Problem-solve and evolve processes in response to new insights and ideas.
• Manage a small team of mental health practitioners and support workers
• Provide robust reporting to internal stakeholders and funders
• Calmly manage the unexpected and support your team through change.
• Build a connected, inclusive and safe team culture from the ground up.
• Oversee risk, incident management and escalation processes 
• Proactively develop and manage stakeholder relationships across the sector.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a kaupapa that supports whānau during an important time, and to help build a team and shape a service that reflects our uara (values) of manaaki, māia, māhaki, and tūhono.

He Kōrero Mōu | About You

You’ll be a confident and inclusive leader who thrives in dynamic environments. You have prior experience in clinical and operational leadership of mental health services. Additionally, you'll have/hold:

• Registration under the Social Work Act 2003 or the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003
• A collaborative, team-oriented approach with experience managing remote teams, and a strong focus on solutions and change leadership
• The ability to build trust and foster a culture of safety and belonging.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship management.
• Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment applying a pro-equity approach.
• Excellent communication and reporting skills.

Whānau Āwhina Plunket is focussed on making Aotearoa the best place for tamariki to grow and thrive. While leading a meaningful new service that will make a real difference in our communities, you’ll have access to a range of staff benefits including:

• A range of retail discounts 
• Professional development and leadership support.
• Flexible working arrangements.

• The opportunity to be part of a team that is passionate about improving outcomes for pēpi, tamariki and their whānau.

Me pēhea te tuku tono| How to apply

Applications must be made online and close on 3 December 2025.

For specific questions, please contact HR@plunket.org.nz

Please note, we will consider applications as they are received and may close this advert early if we find a suitable candidate – so don’t delay, apply today!