Director of Medical Services - Psychiatrist
Northern NSW Local Health District
CANDIDATE INFORMATION PACK
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Executive Summary
- Executive clinical leadership role shaping Mental Health and Alcohol & Other Drugs services across Northern NSW
- Influence system-wide clinical governance, quality, safety, and service innovation
- Senior appointment suited to an experienced Psychiatrist with strong leadership credentials
THE OPPORTUNITY
Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) is seeking an outstanding medical leader to appoint as Director of Medical Services – Mental Health, Alcohol & Other Drugs (MHAOD). This senior leadership role provides strategic and operational oversight of clinical governance, quality, and medical workforce leadership across a diverse and complex service portfolio. Reporting professionally to the Executive Director of Medical Services and operationally to the Director of MHAOD, the role offers the opportunity to deliver meaningful improvements in patient outcomes, service performance, and clinician engagement across the District.
THE ROLE
The Director of Medical Services is accountable for providing senior clinical leadership and ensuring high standards of medical governance across all MHAOD services. The role leads and influences initiatives aimed at improving quality and safety, reducing unwarranted variation in care, and enhancing performance outcomes. It involves working closely with clinical directors, executive leaders, and multidisciplinary teams to support service and workforce planning, foster a positive and professional medical culture, and lead change in a dynamic environment. The position also contributes to research, quality improvement, and performance evaluation activities, while ensuring compliance with legislative, regulatory, and policy requirements at both State and Commonwealth levels.
THE CANDIDATE
The successful candidate will be a highly credible medical leader with current or eligible registration as a Specialist Psychiatrist and Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. You will bring strong knowledge of the NSW Mental Health Act, demonstrated experience in clinical leadership or management roles, and well-developed people leadership and stakeholder engagement capabilities. Experience in service planning, quality improvement, and research is essential, as is the ability to influence strategic direction and deliver operational outcomes in complex health systems. Alignment with NSW Health values of Collaboration, Openness, Respect, and Empowerment is critical, along with a willingness to travel across the District as required.
For a confidential discussion, please get in touch with:
Pete Carter
Principal Search Consultant
M. +61 (0)448 729 077 | M. +64 (0)27 287 5937
E. pcarter@hardygroupintl.com
Northern NSW Local Health District
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 2021 the estimated population within NNSWLHD was 304,857* 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.
Role Specification
The Director of Medical Services (DMS) is responsible for providing high quality clinical and non-clinical leadership and direction to benefit patients accessing the Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs Services in Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD).
The DMS is accountable for high standards of clinical practice and governance in Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs (MHAOD) services working collaboratively with the Senior Leadership Team.
- Lead and improve clinical quality and outcomes for all patients of the services by reducing unwarranted variations to care, championing improvement initiatives, benchmarking and evaluation of performance outcomes.
- Oversee the delivery of high quality and high value care for patients, including participation in service planning to meet population demand.
- Promote organisational efficiency and clinical productivity, demonstrates cost-effectiveness and embeds a culture of value and return on investment.
- Lead and promote a professional and compassionate culture for clinical staff throughout MHAOD services, role modelling performance accountabilities and promoting a positive attitude, enthusiasm, respect and support for staff, using effective communication and ethical decision making to support improvement culture and drive change and innovation.
- Develop effective clinical and research networks and alliances with other healthcare providers, and educational institutions, supporting and undertaking research, including obtaining research funding where possible.
- Promote consumer engagement with a focus on the values of indigenous culture, identifying inequities in health outcomes in aboriginal communities and working in consultation with both consumers and staff to close the gap.
- Comply with relevant legislation and regulations, NSW Ministry of Health policies and NNSWLHD procedures to assist in meeting Activity Based Funding, Commonwealth and State performance indicators and targets.
Eligible for registration with the Medical Board of Australia as a Specialist Psychiatrist with Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (or equivalent).
- Managing and prioritising competing demands to ensure service needs are provided including the need to incorporate change projects.
- Providing leadership through coaching, role modelling and advanced communication skills and emotional intelligence, to build and maintain a psychological safe workplace in which all perspectives contribute to the team decision making.
- Operating in a large complex health system with the need to interface effectively at a state wide level as well as local level.
- Fostering a work environment that continues to attract and retain senior mental health clinicians and other mental health staff to Northern NSW LHD.
1. Specialist Psychiatric Credentials and Statutory Clinical Authority
Eligible for registration as a Specialist Psychiatrist with the Medical Board of Australia, with Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (or equivalent). Demonstrated clinical authority and credibility to lead district-wide Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs services, providing expert clinical leadership, oversight of complex cases, and authoritative advice in high‑risk and high‑acuity clinical environments.
2. Advanced Knowledge and Application of Mental Health Legislation and Regulatory Frameworks
Demonstrated sophisticated working knowledge of the NSW Mental Health Act and related legislation, with proven experience applying statutory powers, ensuring lawful, ethical and rights‑based care. Ability to exercise sound, independent clinical and regulatory judgement under scrutiny, manage medico‑legal risk, and ensure compliance with relevant legislation, Ministry policy, and governance requirements across complex service settings.
3. Executive Medical Leadership, People Management and Workforce Stewardship
Proven experience in a medical leadership role within a large, complex health system, with demonstrated capability to lead, inspire and manage multidisciplinary clinical teams. Able to foster a professional, compassionate and accountable culture; manage performance and conflict; support workforce sustainability; and provide clear clinical governance and mentoring to medical leaders across diverse service streams.
4. Clinical Governance, Quality Improvement and Service System Performance
Demonstrated ability to lead and strengthen clinical governance systems, quality improvement initiatives and performance monitoring across mental health and AOD services. Experience reducing unwarranted variation in care, improving clinical outcomes, embedding safety and risk management practices, and contributing to service planning that balances quality, value, access, and population need within resource‑constrained environments.
5. Commitment to Cultural Safety, Equity and Consumer Partnership
Demonstrated commitment to culturally safe practice and equity‑focused service delivery, including experience partnering with Aboriginal communities, consumers and carers to address inequities in mental health and AOD outcomes. Proven ability to embed respect for Indigenous culture, lived experience perspectives and inclusive practice into leadership decision‑making, service design and quality improvement.
6. Strategic Influence, Stakeholder Engagement and System‑Level Contribution
Highly developed communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills, with the capacity to influence and advance strategic and operational objectives at local and state levels. Demonstrated experience building productive relationships with executive leaders, clinicians, government agencies, research and education partners, and external stakeholders, contributing to innovation, research engagement, and system‑wide improvement.
Please speak to our HG Principal Consultant.
Service Location: Negotiable
The closing date for applications is Sunday, 31 May 2026
The reference number to include in your application is H26_5486.
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, Aldie Zuñiga: M: +61 494 101 082 / E: azuniga@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:
Pete Carter
HG Principal Consultant
M. +61 (0)448 729 077 | M. +64 (0)27 287 5937
E. pcarter@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. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Nobby's Creek in the Tweed Valley
The North Wall, Ballina, is a great spot for spotting dolphins
Mt Wollumbin (Warning) from The pinnacle Lookout, Border Ranges National Park, NSW.
Northern Rivers Market Credit
The beautiful Black Cockatoo
ABOUT US
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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.
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