District Manager - Drug & Alcohol Clinical Services

Are you ready to lead meaningful change in the delivery of drug and alcohol services across the Hunter New England region? We’re seeking a compassionate and experienced clinical leader to drive innovation, enhance operational efficiency, and champion the rights and needs of vulnerable patients within a transitioning, integrated care model.

This is an exciting time of growth and transformation within our Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services (DACS), with enhanced focus on data, quality improvement, and stronger integration into acute care settings. You will play a pivotal role in shaping how services are delivered, ensuring patients are treated with dignity, and that clinical excellence is at the heart of everything we do.

Based in either Newcastle or Tamworth (location negotiable), this leadership role offers the chance to make a lasting impact across urban, regional, and rural communities, working collaboratively with a dedicated multidisciplinary team committed to improving outcomes for people affected by substance use.

What You’ll Bring

• A strong clinical background with demonstrated experience in managing diverse patient needs
• Demonstrated leadership in operational service delivery, change management, and continuous quality improvement
• Compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to advocating for vulnerable and often marginalised populations
• The ability to build relationships across hospital and community teams, supporting integration and collaborative care models
• Passion for enhancing the profile of drug and alcohol services within the acute sector

Support We’ll Provide

You won’t be doing this alone. You’ll be joining a highly skilled, collaborative team of clinical experts who are passionate about delivering quality care. Additional support includes:

• Guidance and mentorship from a well-regarded Medical Director active in research and clinical advancement
• A team of experienced Clinical Managers to assist with orientation
• Strong administrative and strategic support to help you lead with confidence and impact

• Sustainable Healthcare – Join our mission Together Towards Zero, leading the way in environmentally conscious care.
• Prime Location – Enjoy easy access to shopping, cafes, and essential services right near your workplace.

• 4 weeks annual leave (pro-rata for part-time staff)
• 6 weeks for eligible full-time nurses – more time to do what you love.
• Monthly RDOs – Full-time employees enjoy regular Allocated Days Off to support work-life balance.

• Paid Parental Leave – Supporting growing families with the time and care they deserve.
• Salary Packaging Perks – Maximise your take-home pay with up to $11,600 tax-free, plus novated leasing options.
• Fitness Passport – Affordable gym memberships for you and your family to stay active and healthy.

Information for Applicants:

At Hunter New England Local Health District, we are an inclusive employer dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace.  Our commitment to a workforce that reflects the community we care for is essential for delivering the highest quality healthcare to our community. We encourage people with diverse lived experiences to apply. If you require any accommodations or adjustments to the recruitment process please let us know when you apply or at any stage of the process. We will work with you to meet your needs and create the best possible experience. Please contact Rebecca.Caldwell@health.nsw.gov.au for confidential support to ensure an equitable, barrier-free application process.

This is a Category B position. Recommended applicants will be reviewed for compliance with NSW Health policy directive PD2024_015: Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination against Specified Infectious Diseases  for Category B positions prior to offer. All new employees must agree to comply with the requirements outlined in the policy.

Salary Packaging: is beneficial to most Hunter New England Health employees and may increase your take-home pay! Salary package a range of personal expenses including novated motor vehicle leases, relocation expenses, and HECS/HELP debt. Find out more by contacting SalaryPackagingPLUS! via nswhealth@salarypackagingplus.com.au or 1300 40 25 23.

Hunter New England Health employees may be eligible for a range of benefits such as allocated days off (ADO) for full time employees, long service leave, paid maternity leave, and salary packaging options including meal expenses.

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