Advocacy Lead

About the role

The Advocacy Lead manages Arthritis New Zealand's national advocacy work to improve the life of every person in Aotearoa affected by arthritis. The role elevates arthritis as a public health, disability and equity issue by influencing government, agencies, political stakeholders, health providers, and the wider sector. The Advocacy Lead ensures Arthritis NZ's advocacy is evidence‑based, consumer‑led, focused on health equity and fairness, and strategically aligned to organisational priorities.

Key responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with MPs across all parties, including health spokespeople, Select Committee members, and key political advisors
• Prepare briefings, written questions, and policy papers to support parliamentary engagement
• Lead the preparation and delivery of submissions to Select Committees and government consultations
• Analyse legislation, government policy changes, and health sector reforms
• Develop clear policy positions on priority issues in consultation with the Senior Management Team
• Prepare reports, insights, and evidence summaries to support advocacy initiatives
• Strengthen partnerships with relevant health organisations and build reciprocal relationships with disability‑focused agencies
• Monitor media, social channels, online forums and health sector developments to identify emerging issues affecting people with arthritis
• Maintain accurate, up‑to‑date statistics on arthritis prevalence, demographics, and impacts from reputable sources
• Advocate for arthritis to be recognised as a leading cause of disability and ensure inclusion in disability and accessibility policy development

About you

• 5+ years' experience in advocacy, public policy, government relations, or health sector engagement
• Proven ability to build relationships across political parties and agencies
• Strong policy analysis, research and writing skills
• Understanding of health equity, disability rights, and systemic barriers for people with long‑term conditions
• Experience preparing submissions, briefings and high‑level documents for decision‑makers
• Knowledge of, and commitment to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi
• Confident communicator
• Politically savvy
• Strategic thinker
• Empathetic

About us

Arthritis New Zealand is seeking an experienced Advocacy Lead to drive our national advocacy programme and ensure the voices of the 860,000 people living with arthritis are heard by government, health agencies, decision-makers, and the wider community. You'll work alongside a passionate and collegial team dedicated to advocacy, education, research and support.

For further information please contact: Philippa [email protected]