DISTRICT DIRECTOR - VARIOUS
WESTERN AUSTRALIA COUNTRY HEALTH SERVICE (WACHS)
CANDIDATE INFORMATION PACK
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Executive Summary
- Lead at executive level across multiple large and complex health districts, with full accountability for service delivery, performance and sustainability.
- Shape the future of regional healthcare across Western Australia through system leadership, integration and contemporary models of care.
- Drive transformation, workforce capability and service improvement across diverse and geographically dispersed communities.
- Contribute to a high-impact, values-driven organisation while experiencing the unique professional and lifestyle opportunities of regional Western Australia.
THE OPPORTUNITY
WA Country Health Service (WACHS) delivers public health services across regional and remote Western Australia, supporting communities across one of the largest health jurisdictions globally through a broad network of hospitals, health campuses and community-based services. District Director roles are critical to leading integrated, place-based healthcare delivery across multiple districts, each with its own scale, complexity and service profile. Operating within an environment of increasing demand, workforce constraints, equity of access challenges and ongoing health system reform, the districts require experienced and contemporary leadership to ensure services remain sustainable, responsive and aligned with organisational priorities. These appointments reflect a strong focus on strengthening operational performance, integrating services and supporting the future direction of regional healthcare across Western Australia.
THE ROLE
District Directors provide strategic and operational leadership across hospitals and health services within their respective districts, with accountability for the delivery of safe, sustainable and high-quality healthcare aligned to organisational priorities and community need. The role encompasses end-to-end responsibility for service planning, operational performance and the effective integration of hospital, community and virtual care services, ensuring a coordinated and consistent approach to service delivery across the district.
Operating within a complex governance environment, District Directors are responsible for ensuring that services meet all legislative, regulatory and accreditation requirements, supported by robust systems for safety, quality, compliance and risk management. They hold accountability for the effective stewardship of financial, workforce and physical resources, implementing monitoring and reporting frameworks that support transparency, performance oversight and informed decision-making. The role also requires proactive identification and management of service pressures and risks, ensuring appropriate escalation, mitigation and continuous improvement across all areas of responsibility.
Working closely with clinical and corporate program leaders, District Directors play a central role in strengthening specialist support, advancing place-based care and ensuring alignment with broader organisational strategy. They foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and performance, while leading organisational development and workforce capability initiatives to meet current and future service needs. The position also holds significant responsibility for building and maintaining strong partnerships with government, community, industry and other stakeholders, ensuring services are responsive, connected and aligned with local priorities.
THE CANDIDATE
The successful candidates will be experienced senior health leaders with a strong track record of delivering results within complex service environments. They will bring demonstrated capability in leading multidisciplinary teams, improving organisational performance and navigating the challenges inherent in public health systems, including workforce sustainability, service demand and equity of access. Their experience will reflect both strategic and operational leadership, underpinned by sound judgement, highly developed analytical capability and the ability to anticipate and manage risk in dynamic settings.
Candidates will be skilled in stakeholder engagement, with the ability to build strong, trusted relationships across clinicians, executives, government and community partners, and to influence outcomes across organisational and system boundaries. They will demonstrate integrity, resilience and adaptability, alongside a clear and thoughtful approach to leadership and decision-making. This is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the delivery and future direction of healthcare across regional Western Australia, shaping services that are sustainable, integrated and responsive to the communities they serve.
HOW TO APPLY
The closing date for applications is Monday, 8 June 2026.
For a confidential discussion about the position, please contact:
Sarah Buckler
HardyGroup Principal Consultant
HardyGroup
M. +61 (0)429 486 740
WESTERN AUSTRLIA COUNTRY HEALTH SERVICE
WACHS Profile
WA Country Health Service (WACHS) delivers public health services across regional and remote Western Australia, covering more than 2.5 million square kilometres. WACHS supports communities through a network of more than 70 hospitals and health facilities, including regional hospitals, health campuses, and Multi-Purpose Service sites, as well as community-based services and Telehealth. Services are delivered within a multidisciplinary environment, bringing together clinical, allied health, operational, and support services, and are underpinned by strong community connection and collaboration with local stakeholders.
These services provide:
- Emergency and hospital services
- Population, public and primary healthcare
- Aboriginal health services
- Mental health services
- Drug and alcohol services
- Child, community and school healthcare
- Telehealth services
- Residential and community aged care services
According to the latest available Australian Bureau of Statistics Estimated Resident Population (ERP) data (2023), the population of WACHS's catchment area is 566,731 people. Over 11 per cent of these people (63,904) identify as Aboriginal.
WACHS Districts Map
The population we service is diverse and expansive and as a result has widely varying health needs. People living in rural and remote areas experience poorer general health than those in metropolitan areas and Aboriginal health and life expectancy, in particular, is significantly less than that of non-Aboriginal people.
Government funding and industry investment over recent years have brought about a transformation of country health care through major and minor capital works. More towns now have contemporary health campuses, expanded hospitals, greater emergency service capacity and modern facilities and equipment. Coupled with technological and service innovations such as Telehealth, the WA Country Health Service is now delivering health care closer to home for more country Western Australians than ever before.
WACHS Strategic Priorities
Strengthening Local Health Services
WA Country Health Service (WACHS) has evolved over the years and now we are modernising the way we are designed and operate at senior management level. Our staff are part of the community they work and live in and, building on this strong foundation, we are working to better support and enable our frontline staff to provide the services our country communities need. We know that better connecting leadership to local staff, service partners, communities and consumers will result in better patient services.
Over the past five years, we have strengthened governance, standardised processes, expanded virtual care, and embedded workforce strategies that improve recruitment, retention, and workplace safety.
Building on this foundation, we are now undertaking Strengthening Local Health Services (SLHS) structural change.
These improvements will better support staff on the ground, resulting in more joined up and connected health teams aimed to improve healthcare delivery and care pathways for country communities.
District-based senior management will enable increased local staff reporting to local leaders, and employment opportunities across country WA. A key feature of this is larger hospitals supporting smaller sites and standardising operating systems.
SLHS will result in better patient, service and system outcomes, and see a more contemporary and agile health service that best supports staff to provide excellence in healthcare delivery.
Meeting the needs of country communities
WACHS staff are part of the community they work and live in. Local leaders on the ground will be given greater service accountability and decision making, with access to 24/7 clinical and operational support when and where it is needed.
Strong leadership bolsters our health service by increasing support to frontline staff across regional and remote areas.
The SLHS reforms follow the success of internal reforms undertaken by WACHS including business services, 24/7 virtual care and operational support.
The reform introduces District Directors to lead district health services, strengthen service performance, workforce accountability and community partnerships, and support more connected, place‑based care. These roles report to the relevant regional Executive Director and form a key part of the new district management structure.
Opportunities are available across the following districts
Rural:
- Central Great Southern (G13)
- Lower Great Southern (G14)
- Western Wheatbelt (G13)
- Eastern Wheatbelt (G13)
- Southern Wheatbelt (G13)
- Coastal South West (G13)
- Inland South West (G13)
- Bunbury Wellington (HES A)
Remote
- Northern Goldfields (G14)
- South-East Coastal (G13)
- Gascoyne (G13)
- Geraldton (G14)
- Midwest Murchison (G13)
- West Pilbara (G13)
- East Pilbara (G14)
- West Kimberley (G14)
- East Kimberley (G13)
Working for WA Country Health Service in Rural and Remote WA
Role Specification
Supported by WACHS Clinical and Corporate Programs, this position is responsible for:
- Strategic and operational leadership and governance for WACHS health services within the Health District.
- Management of the integration and coordination of local and district services to ensure delivery of safe, sustainable and quality local and virtual services.
- Engagement with the community, other health providers and non-health agencies through connected and collaborative partnerships.
- Strengthening specialist support to the health district and advancing place-based care by partnering with clinical and corporate program leaders to ensure consistent standards.
- Accountable for district governance and assurance.
These District Director roles represent a rare opportunity to lead the delivery and transformation of health services across some of Western Australia’s most diverse and strategically significant regions. With accountability for integrated hospital, community and multidisciplinary services, District Directors will operate at genuine system level, shaping service models, strengthening workforce sustainability and driving improved outcomes for regional communities. Supported by WACHS clinical and corporate programs, and 24/7 virtual access to clinical and operational expertise, they ensure effective care coordination and a seamless patient journey.
Working in close partnership with clinical and corporate leaders, government and local stakeholders, this is a role that combines strategic influence with operational leadership. District Directors will play a pivotal role in advancing contemporary models of care, embedding innovation and ensuring safe, high-quality and sustainable services aligned to future healthcare needs.
G14 - Regional Hospitals, Small Hospitals and health service within the District, and the Regional service responsibilities across districts.
G13 - District Hospitals, Small Hospital and health service within the District.
1. Leadership and Coordination
- 1.1. Operationally leads, manages and governs WACHS health services at the Hospitals and health services within the Health District, aligned to the identified needs of the population and WACHS’ strategic and operational priorities.
- 1.2. Ensures the Hospital fulfills its role as a Regional/District/Small Hospital, operating in accordance with endorsed clinical, corporate and cultural frameworks.
- 1.3. Contributes to WACHS’ vision, goals, policies and strategies and through leadership, communication, action and achievements, is a role model for current and future leaders.
- 1.4. Fosters a positive, improvement and innovation culture across the district and organisation, consistent with WACHS Mission, Vision and Values.
- 1.5. Leads district‑level organisational development, workforce capability initiatives to align with current and future service needs.
2. Management and Compliance
- 2.1. Ensures health services in the district function and operate in accordance with relevant legislative, standards, regulatory and accreditation requirements, clinical, corporate and cultural governance frameworks and financial delegations.
- 2.2. Implements and maintains appropriate management, monitoring and reporting systems for financial, human resource, physical and other resources within the district in accordance with relevant legislation, policy and guidelines.
- 2.3. Accountable for the effective and efficient management of district services and associated resources.
- 2.4. Provides assurance on district safety, quality, compliance, financial stewardship and risk management, supported by appropriate reporting, monitoring and governance processes.
3. Operations, Systems and Planning
- 3.1. Leads engagement, integration and coordination of district services in partnership with other health districts, program leads and non-health agencies.
- 3.2. Identifies, actions and manages escalation, mitigation and timely resolution of risks.
- 3.3. Accountable for district service reviews, audits and accreditation processes, and for ensuring findings, recommendations and improvement actions are implemented and monitored.
4. Collaboration, Relationships & Partnerships
- 4.1. Works collaboratively with relevant clinical and corporate programs to ensure place-based, safe, consistent and effective health services delivery across the district.
- 4.2. Develops and maintains effective relationships and open communication lines with internal and external stakeholders. Including WACHS Executive, management support services, program leads, local government, industry, professional, community and other key stakeholders to achieve service delivery objectives.
- 4.3. In collaboration with program leads, ensures business continuity, emergency management, work health and safety and risk management strategies and systems are in place, regularly tested, evaluated and maintained.
5. Other Performs other duties as required.
Desirable
1. Tertiary qualifications in health and/or hospital management.
2. Experience in and knowledge of the rural health industry.
3. Experience in and knowledge of government procurement policies, legislation and practices.
1. Extensive experience leading, initiating and improving healthcare (or related) service delivery outcomes within a complex environment.
2. Significant experience in strategic and operational stakeholder engagement including consumers with the ability to build strong partnerships and negotiate across a wide range of entities.
3. Significant experience leading and managing teams with a focus on building capability, team performance, achieving results and agreed outcomes.
4. Highly developed analytical, conceptual and problem-solving skills with the ability to anticipate issues and mitigate risks to achieve business results.
5. Sound understanding of current issues in the public health system including rural area and equity of access issues.
6. Current knowledge of legislative and regulatory requirements in the areas of Equal Opportunity, Disability Services and Occupational Safety & Health, and how these impact on employment, people management and service delivery.
District Director reports to Executive Director - Region
HSO Level G13/G14 $198,503 - $206,004 p.a. plus 12% superannuation
HES A $234,360 - $252,490 p.a. plus 12% superannuation
Opportunities are available across the following districts:
Rural:
- Central Great Southern (G13)
- Lower Great Southern (G14)
- Western Wheatbelt (G13)
- Eastern Wheatbelt (G13)
- Southern Wheatbelt (G13)
- Coastal South West (G13)
- Inland South West (G13)
- Bunbury Wellington (HES A)
Remote
- Northern Goldfields (G14)
- South-East Coastal (G13)
- Gascoyne (G13)
- Geraldton (G14)
- Midwest Murchison (G13)
- West Pilbara (G13)
- East Pilbara (G14)
- West Kimberley (G14)
- East Kimberley (G13)
Applicants are required to nominate their three district preferences by ranking in order of preference.
Applicants will also be asked to indicate whether they are open to being considered for alternative locations if they are not successful for their preferred districts.
Appointment may require travel or redeployment within and between districts at the same classification level.
Appointments are expected to commence from mid-August 2026, subject to recruitment timeframes.
Applicants with relevant experience and interest are encouraged to apply for this opportunity if they are seeking a district leadership role.
In the future there will be many new, other senior district management positions available for interested staff with relative experience. This includes conceptual Director Health Programs, Manager Corporate Services, and Manager Facilities.
Classification:
District Director Bunbury Wellington: HES A
District Director - Various: Health Salaried Officers Agreement - G13 or G14
Appointment Pre-requisites
Appointment is subject to:
- Provision of the minimum identity proofing requirements
- Successful Criminal Record Screening Clearance
- Successful Pre-Employment Health Assessment
- Successful WA Health Integrity Check
The closing date for applications is Monday, 8 June 2026.
The reference number to include in your application is H26_5520.
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, Sarah Prebble: M: +61 (0)430 219 787 / E: sprebble@hardygroupintl.com
Applicants are required to:
1. Submit a resume, including two referees (maximum 3 pages).
2. Submit a cover letter including a summary of your experience, relevant to the attached Job Description (maximum 2 pages).
Applicants are required to nominate their three district preferences by ranking in order of preference.
Applicants will also be asked to indicate whether they are open to being considered for alternative locations if they are not successful for their preferred districts.
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:
Ms Sarah Buckler PSM
HardyGroup Principal Consultant
M. +61 (0)429 486 740
LIVING AND WORKING IN REGIONAL WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Western Australia offers an exceptional lifestyle defined by space, natural beauty and strong community connection. The state features a warm climate, spectacular coastline and diverse environments—from a vibrant capital city to regional and remote communities rich in culture and heritage.
Residents benefit from a high quality of life, with access to excellent healthcare, education and a wide range of recreational and cultural experiences. A multicultural population contributes to a diverse food and arts scene, complemented by year-round festivals and events. The outdoor lifestyle is a defining feature, with beaches, national parks and renowned wine regions supporting a healthy balance between work and leisure
Together, these elements make Western Australia a highly attractive place to live, offering a unique blend of lifestyle, community and environment.
Most importantly, living in Western Australia means achieving the work‑life balance you’ve been craving—more time for family, wellbeing and the things that matter most.
WA Country Health Service - Living and working in country WA
Dr Franci Winfield - Bunbury - From Here
What Can You do in Western Australia?
Nature lovers are spoiled for choice in Western Australia. From the pristine beaches of Rottnest Island and Esperance to the ancient gorges of Karijini National Park and the unique landscapes of the Pinnacles Desert, spectacular natural environments are right on your doorstep. Whether it’s snorkelling in turquoise bays, exploring national parks or simply enjoying the scenery, there’s always something remarkable to experience.
Outdoor adventure is part of everyday life, with opportunities to swim with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef, hike iconic trails, cycle car-free islands, or enjoy boating, camping and coastal escapes across one of the world’s most diverse landscapes.
For those who enjoy food, arts and culture, Western Australia offers a vibrant mix of experiences—from world-class wineries in Margaret River to festivals, galleries and historic sites such as Fremantle Prison and Perth’s Kings Park, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world.
Most of all, Western Australia is known for its sense of space, lifestyle and connection—offering a unique opportunity to live well, explore widely and be part of diverse and welcoming communities.
ABOUT US
HardyGroup’s (HG) mission is simple
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.