Theatre Services Manager – Southern Cross Wellington Surgical Centre
Location: Newtown, Wellington
Opening October 2025 | Full-time | Monday–Friday
Lead the launch of a brand-new surgical facility. Be hands-on, make an impact, and help shape the future of care.
Southern Cross Wellington Surgical Centre is an exciting new day-stay facility opening in October 2025. A joint venture between Southern Cross Healthcare and a group of local orthopaedic surgeons, this state-of-the-art centre is located on the Southern Cross Hospital campus in Newtown, Wellington.
We’re looking for a passionate and experienced Theatre Services Manager to join our team as soon as possible (start date is flexible). This is a rare opportunity to be part of something from the ground up — from setup through to go-live and beyond.
In this dynamic leadership role, you’ll support the General Manager in preparing the facility for opening and then lead the clinical theatre and supply chain functions day to day. You’ll be responsible for a multidisciplinary team including full-time and part-time staff across operating theatres and recovery.
This is not a desk-bound leadership role — we’re looking for someone who’s ready to roll up their sleeves, work alongside their team on the floor, and do what’s needed to get things up and running smoothly.
Although the standard hours are Monday to Friday during business hours, a degree of flexibility is essential, especially during the setup phase and in the early months after opening.
Provide strong nursing leadership and oversee the setup and operation of the theatre and supply chain
Lead and manage a clinical team across full-time and part-time roles
Ensure smooth and safe clinical operations that prioritise high-quality patient outcomes
Foster a team culture of collaboration, professionalism, and continuous improvement
Monitor KPIs, ensure compliance with standards, and implement improvement initiatives
Work clinically when required and provide visible, hands-on leadership
Collaborate with senior leadership, surgeons, and stakeholders to drive performance and success
At least 5 years of clinical experience, including 2+ years in a leadership or management role
Clinical expertise and knowledge of operating theatres and surgical services
Proven experience in leading and developing diverse teams
Strong decision-making, critical thinking, and communication skills
Comfort with data analysis, performance reporting, and quality improvement
Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational involvement
NZ Nursing Council registration and a commitment to continuous professional development
Flexibility and readiness to adapt during the setup and opening phase
Competitive salary (commensurate with experience)
Funded health insurance
NZ Nursing Council-approved PDRP
Monday–Friday work schedule with flexibility as needed
Christmas and New Year breaks
Free staff car parking
Supportive, collaborative team environment
A rare opportunity to shape a brand-new healthcare facility from day one
Southern Cross Wellington Surgical Centre will open in October 2025 and will feature two modern operating theatres, a five-bed PACU, and a five-chair day-stay lounge. As part of the Southern Cross Healthcare network, we are committed to delivering safe, high-quality, patient-centred care.
If you're a driven, hands-on clinical leader ready to make your mark, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now and help bring this exciting new facility to life.