Clarence General Manager
(Grafton and Maclean Hospitals)
CANDIDATE INFORMATION PACK
Northern NSW Local Health District
Northern NSW Local Health District acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters where we live and work. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and extend this respect to all Aboriginal people.
Executive Summary
- Drive change within a community hospital
- Be a part of the Sustainable Futures Programme
- Contemporary and inspirational leader
THE OPPORTUNITY
We are excited to offer a unique opportunity for a General Manager to lead and shape the delivery of health services within the Clarence region, overseeing Grafton and Maclean Hospitals. In this senior leadership role, you will be at the forefront of ensuring high-quality clinical care is provided to the local community, while effectively managing resources, service delivery, and strategic planning. This is your chance to make a significant impact on healthcare in the region, while working within the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) to meet the evolving needs of the population.
THE ROLE
As the General Manager, you will be responsible for leading Clarence Health Services, ensuring the efficient and effective use of resources while achieving key performance targets. The General Manager role includes the strategic management, monitoring and standardisation of the LHD Clinical Operations facility outpatient clinics. You will oversee the management of clinical services, ensuring compliance with budgets, performance indicators, and quality standards, and will be tasked with addressing patient complaints, legal, and ethical issues with timely and effective resolutions. In this role, you will ensure that services are delivered safely and efficiently, while also incorporating future needs and developments into strategic planning. Additionally, you will monitor and adjust service levels based on available resources, financial capacity, and alignment with NNSWLHD’s strategic direction, and participate in the on-call roster as part of the Clinical Operations Executive team.
As the General Manager, you will also demonstrate the ability to lead an organisation that attracts and retains talented individuals by fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where people are valued, empowered, and motivated to contribute to the organisation’s success. You will be part of an organisation that genuinely cares about the well-being and development of its people, ensuring a positive work environment for all staff.
THE CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate will have proven success in senior leadership roles within a health services setting, with experience in clinical service management and operational leadership, a strong understanding of budgeting, performance management, quality assurance, and accreditation standards, and the ability to address complex legal, ethical, and patient complaint matters. They will be skilled in managing resources efficiently and aligning service delivery with financial and operational objectives, possess excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, and have a passion for improving healthcare delivery and driving strategic growth in a regional setting. If you are ready to take on this challenge and contribute to the ongoing success and evolution of health services in the Clarence region, we encourage you to apply.
For a confidential discussion, please get in touch with:
Rhodie Miller
HardyGroup Principal Consultant
m. +61 (0)422 816 557
e. rmiller@hardygroupintl.com
NNSWLHD provides a diverse range of public healthcare to over 300,000 residents across the district through 12 hospitals and multi-purpose services, 21 community health centres and other facilities.
NNSWLHD covers a large area in north-eastern NSW extending from Tweed Heads in the north to Tabulam and Urbenville in the west and to Nymboida and Grafton in the south, an area of 20,732 square kilometres.
In 2011 the estimated population within NNSWLHD was 288,241 and is projected to increase by an estimated 16.3% by 2031.The population of persons aged 65 years and older is expected to increase by approximately 71% in the same period.
People of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage make up 5.2 per cent of the population in Northern NSW compared to 3.4 per cent for all NSW*.
The District delivers a broad range of health services in state-of-the-art facilities, with access to general and specialist services. Staff are connected to best-practice medical care throughout Australia thanks to a growing network of training opportunities and relationships with local and metropolitan tertiary education providers.
NNSWLHD is undertaking major capital projects at several facilities, which will support staff and clinicians in providing excellent care to the District’s communities well into the future. Continued developments in Information Communication Technologies and Integrated Care have also resulted in improved patient outcomes and hospital services.
*Statistics sourced from the June 2021 Australian Census.
Our Purpose: Work together to deliver quality health outcomes across our communities
Our Values:
Collaboration is working willingly and actively together to achieve goals and improve levels of service to NSW Health. Collaboration means seeking the input of others, both from within the Northern NSW Local Health District and from external partners, while always considering the impact on our teams.
Openness is a state of mind, enabling colleagues to share ideas and communicate clearly. We strive to be approachable, actively listen and encourage others to contribute and speak up. We offer and receive constructive feedback. This ensures others feel their contribution is valued, even when there are disagreements.
Respect is a reminder to treat others as we would like to be treated ourselves. It is important to be mindful of each other’s capabilities, regardless of role or grade. We care about the different perspectives and backgrounds in our workplace and are thoughtful of our impact on others.
Empowerment enables a sense of purpose in our work. It is achieved through taking responsibility for our performance and behaviour. We celebrate our achievements. We also reflect upon things which may not have met expectations and learn from that experience. In doing so, we create a positive environment in which people are encouraged to grow, develop and succeed.
Richard Seamark, Clinical Director of Richmond Clarence Mental Health Service, on working in Northern NSW LHD.
Role Specification
To provide high level strategic and operational leadership and support in order to ensure high quality clinical services to the community. To manage all aspects of health services for Clarence (Grafton and Maclean Hospitals), ensuring activity, financial and service delivery objectives are achieved, and effective management of the interface between NNSWLHD, the community and local health service providers.
The General Manager will ensure the Clarence Executive Team remain focused on key priority areas and contribute as a member of the NNSWLHD Clinical Operations Leadership Teams to ensure achievement of the District's performance agreement with NSW Ministry of Health.
Is responsible for the strategic management, monitoring and implementation of standardised practices, policies and procedures at LHD Clinical Operations facility outpatient clinics.
The General Manager will also monitor and oversee LHD wide Operational contracts for the Clinical Operations Directorate. The General Manager will also undertaken additional LHD programs/projects at the discretion of the Director Clinical Operations.
The General Manager will be required to participate in on-call roster as part of the Clinical Operations Executive team.
- Provide operational leadership for health service delivery and management within Clarence including the effective and efficient use of resources.
- Provide effective management of clinical services. This responsibility encompasses achieving budgets, performance indicators, activity targets, quality and accreditation standards, and providing direction for the management of patient complaints as well as legal and ethical issues that arise, to provide effective and timely resolutions.
- Ensure that services are managed safely, timely and efficiently, and that future needs and developments are incorporated into prospective planning processes.
- Determine and monitor service levels within a framework of available resources, financial capacity and the NNSWLHD Strategic Planning directions.
- Implement strategy and plans for achieving positive patient experiences that aim to provide models of care, ensuring consumer involvement and engagement and choice of care and service delivery.
- Develop and implement business and strategic plans that will optimise current and projected workforce planning priorities, which incorporate goals and targets from the Performance Agreement between NNSWLHD and NSW Health, and other NNSWLHD imperatives.
- Ensure human resource development for all staff through training, performance development and standards of clinical practice. Implement appropriate cultural strategies to ensure a culturally safe work environment and to minimise vacancies and turnover rate, agency use, overtime and sick leave.
- Ensure that consistent standards of safe, quality care is provided across the facilities by implementing and monitoring standardised best practice principles and report variances through the implementation of a quality framework.
- Provide strategic oversight of LHD Clinical Operations outpatient clinics. This responsibility encompasses Chairing the LHD Strategic Outpatient Clinic meeting. Provide the Director of Clinical Operations with monthly updates on issues and outpatient activity. Also be the LHD contact for any State related meetings and activities related to outpatients.
- Monitor and oversee LHD Operational contracts for the Clinical Operations Directorate. Including Chairing LHD wide contract meetings when required which could include internal and external partners.
- Sponsor and implement programs/projects as directed by the Director Clinical Operations.
Please see capabilities for the role in the Role Description.
1. Extensive experience and demonstrated competence at a senior management level in a substantial and complex organisation engaged in service delivery, preferably in a health care environment and/or relevant tertiary qualifications in a health management related field.
2. Proven capacity to work co-operatively with other staff and practitioners and support teams in a complex multidisciplinary team environment.
3. Demonstrated high level interpersonal and communication skills; including demonstrated highly developed problem solving, negotiation and analytical skills.
4. Demonstrated ability to lead organisational change and to balance competing demands and resolve conflict.
5. Demonstrated advance competence and extensive experience in all aspects of financial management to maintain service delivery.
6. Demonstrated ability to lead a diverse range of staff across clinical and corporate functions to deliver high quality integrated health services and key performance indicators.
7. Demonstrated application of knowledge and expertise in health service delivery, including outpatient and operational contract management, across a diverse range of care sectors, and in a broad range of community and government forums,
8. Current Driver's Licence and willingness to use for work purpose travel.
Safety and quality statement
Fulfil the safety and quality accountabilities of the role to ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality care in line with the NNSWLHD Clinical Governance Framework.
Training
Comply with and participate in the organisation's training programs and policies, including satisfactory completion of all mandatory training
Director Clinical Operations NNSWLHD
Provide authoritative and expert advice on operations matters and recommendations which influence planning and decision making. Establish funding and resourcing that are consistent with operational needs, strategic plans and priorities. Communicate information related to performance against budgets and Ministry of Health service level agreement measures.
Operational Directors and other managers, NNSWLHD Executives
Establish effective networks with operational directors at NNSWLHD to enable performance benchmarking, monitor trends and collaborate on common responses to emerging and future issues. Advise on The Tweed Hospital matters and ensure that stakeholder satisfaction with services informs decisions at all executive levels. Engage executives in service design and evaluation, to continually improve operations and service delivery models and solutions.
Direct Reports
Lead, guide and support. Set performance expectations and manage team performance and development.
Ministry of Health and other Local Health Districts, Other NSW Government Agencies
Establish effective networks with operational directors across NSW to enable performance benchmarking, monitor trends and collaborate on common responses to emerging and future issues. Foster collaborative relationships and partnerships with other NSW Government stakeholders and agencies, to advance mutual interests.
Community/Client Stakeholders
Facilitate relationships with key client/community stakeholders to ensure that programs and services meet current and evolving needs and expected service delivery standards.
Salary: $189,878 - $207,381.20
- To successfully manage relationships within the Grafton & Maclean Hospitals, exercising sound judgement and leadership influence in all interactions.
- Provide well-researched and balanced advice on sensitive and complex issues within tight timeframes including managing complexities and escalating contentious issues to the Director Clinical Operations.
- Manage time to meet deadlines and performance standards while managing competing tasks and priorities.
- Managing competing priorities between the Clarence Management role, LHD Outpatient Role and operational contract management.
Service Location: Clarence, Grafton and Maclean Hospitals
Classification: Health Manager HM 6
The closing date for applications is Sunday, 5th October 2025
The reference number to include in your application is H25_5017
Note: Please use the online platform to submit your application. It will not be accepted via email.
If you require assistance in submitting your application online, please get in touch with Executive Search Coordinator, Bradie Hammat: M: +61 (0)417 882 900 / E: bhammat@hardygroupintl.com
Your application must include:
- 1.Cover letter addressed to the Principal Consultant;
- 2.A written response addressing the key selection criteria; and
- 3.An up to date copy of your Curriculum Vitae.
It Is standard practice for HardyGroup to acknowledge receipt of your application no later than the next business day. We request that if you do not receive the acknowledgement, you contact the search coordinator listed above as soon as possible after the 24-hour business period and arrange to resend your application if necessary.
For a confidential discussion, please contact:
Rhodie Miller
HardyGroup Principal Consultant
m. +61 (0)422 816 557
e. rmiller@hardygroupintl.com
LIVING AND WORKING IN
NORTHERN NSW
Northern New South Wales offers a lifestyle that combines natural beauty, vibrant communities, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Northern New South Wales offers a lifestyle that combines natural beauty, vibrant communities, and a laid-back atmosphere. With a subtropical climate, the region enjoys warm summers and mild winters, making outdoor activities a year-round possibility. Some of Australia’s most renowned surfing beaches, such as Byron Bay, Ballina, and Kingscliff, line the coast, attracting surf enthusiasts from across the globe. The local beaches not only boast incredible waves but also spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Beyond surfing, the area’s creative pulse is palpable, with flourishing arts communities that support painters, woodworkers, ceramists, and musicians. Places like Lismore and Byron Bay host annual festivals celebrating everything from film to music and visual arts, ensuring a rich cultural experience.
The North Wall, Ballina, is a great spot for spotting dolphins
Further north, Tweed Heads offers a blend of coastal and riverside living, with easy access to pristine beaches and the picturesque Tweed River, perfect for fishing, boating, and water sports. Nearby, Murwillumbah, with its stunning views of Mt Warning (Wollumbin) and the surrounding World Heritage-listed rainforests, has a thriving arts community and regularly hosts cultural events like the Tweed Valley Banana Festival.
The beautiful Black Cockatoo
Richmond Valley, including towns like Casino and Evans Head, blends rich agricultural land with coastal beauty, offering a diverse range of experiences from country markets to quiet beach escapes. Lennox Head, renowned for its stunning surf breaks and relaxed village atmosphere, is a favourite for surfers and families alike, with Lake Ainsworth providing a peaceful retreat for kayaking and picnics.
Cows on farmland in Kyogle
Whether it's hiking through rainforests, whale watching along the coast, or immersing yourself in the vibrant arts scene, Northern NSW offers an unparalleled lifestyle. The region's blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and strong community spirit makes it a truly special place to live and explore.
Nobby's Creek in the Tweed Valley
Each town within Northern NSW has its own unique character. Grafton, known as the Jacaranda City, transforms into a purple wonderland during its annual Jacaranda Festival. Maclean, the Scottish Town of Australia, keeps its heritage alive with events like the Highland Gathering, which has been running for over a century. Casino, celebrated as the Beef Capital of Australia, is a haven for food lovers, with the region producing some of the best beef in the country. Weekend farmers markets are a staple, offering fresh, locally grown produce from avocados and macadamias to artisan cheeses and organic meats.
Mt Wollumbin (Warning) from The pinnacle Lookout, Border Ranges National Park, NSW.
Kyogle, located on the edge of the Border Ranges, is known for its natural beauty and close-knit rural community. Surrounded by rainforests and waterfalls, it offers excellent opportunities for bushwalking and wildlife watching. In the Upper Clarence region, charming villages like Bonalbo are gateways to rugged outdoor adventures, with scenic drives and campgrounds that make the most of the area's unspoiled environment.
Wategos Beach with Byron Bay Lighthouse in background
Mullumbimby, nestled in the Byron hinterland, is a hub for alternative lifestyles and creativity. With a strong sense of community and a weekly farmers market that showcases the best local produce, it attracts those seeking a laid-back, sustainable lifestyle. The surrounding hills are dotted with organic farms, wellness retreats, and art studios, making it a unique destination within the region.
ABOUT US
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Find and Grow Great Leaders - and we have been doing exactly that for more than 30 years in public and private health, primary, community and aged care as well as the broader public service.
Our synergistic business model of Executive Search and Recruitment integrated with Executive Leadership and Learning is our unique point of difference.
It ensures our clients can count on us for the lifecycle of their organisations leadership journey and why we are regarded as the leading trans-Tasman partner agency by clients.
When engaging HG you can be confident in a deeply personalised experience and service as nothing matters more to us than relationships and results.