Professional Standards Adviser – Medical Council NZ

About the role

The Medical Council of New Zealand is seeking a Professional Standards Adviser to support its statutory functions under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003. This role contributes to public safety by managing complex professional conduct and competence matters for medical practitioners.

Key responsibilities

• Serve as the primary contact for the profession and the public on professional standards issues.
• Manage and progress complex conduct and competence cases, ensuring fair and legally robust outcomes.
• Analyse notifications, assess concerns, and provide recommendations to Council.
• Engage with doctors, legal counsel, notifiers, Council members and health‑sector stakeholders.
• Prepare clear, well‑reasoned reports, briefings and documentation for decision‑makers and committees.
• Ensure compliance with legislation, Council policies and continuous improvement of regulatory processes.

Required profile

• Experience in regulation, case/complaints management, legal, health or professional standards environments.
• Proven ability to interpret and apply legislation and policy.
• Strong analytical, critical‑thinking and decision‑making capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with attention to detail.
• Sound judgement, integrity and the capacity to handle sensitive issues with discretion.
• Resilient, compassionate and able to manage competing perspectives.

Required skills

• Case management and dispute‑resolution techniques.
• Interpretation of legislative and policy frameworks.
• Preparation of high‑quality analytical reports and recommendations.