Head of Insights & Analytics

About Southern Cross Health Insurance

Southern Cross Health Insurance is committed to fostering a healthier New Zealand by empowering over one million members to live well for longer. As a member-focused and New Zealand-owned organization, it prioritizes timely access to quality care, promotes healthier living, and leads positive health system change. The company values its people and provides a work environment that encourages growth, impact, and pride in meaningful work.

Role Overview

This senior leadership position offers a unique opportunity to influence healthcare utilization, cost management, claims performance, and strategic decision making across various domains including product development, pricing, member strategy, and financial planning. The Head of Insights and Analytics will drive analytics efforts by combining commercial, healthcare, and advanced data analysis expertise to translate data into clear, actionable business outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Offer expert guidance and commercial insights by collaborating with the Data & AI team to ensure trusted data quality and engaging stakeholders across the organization.
• Utilize predictive models, AI, and advanced analytical techniques to enhance forecasting, identify emerging trends, and optimize claims performance to reduce inefficiencies and claims leakage.
• Synthesize complex healthcare, clinical, and claims data into clear, evidence-based recommendations that support strategic decisions and business performance improvements.
• Develop and implement scalable analytical frameworks focusing on initiatives that significantly impact financial sustainability, member outcomes, and overall organizational performance.
• Collaborate with teams in product, pricing, healthcare partnerships, member strategy, and financial planning to transform insights into measurable business results.
• Ensure data governance, quality, integrity, and explainability meet regulatory and organizational standards.
• Stay updated on trends in healthcare economics, analytics, and AI to introduce innovative insights and thinking within the company.

Candidate Profile

• In-depth knowledge of healthcare economics, claim trends, healthcare utilization, and cost/value drivers in healthcare.
• Proficient in applying advanced analytics, predictive modeling, and AI to deliver tangible business outcomes.
• Proven ability to lead thought innovation and influence senior leadership decisions through evidence-backed insights and credibility.
• Excellent communication skills capable of translating technical data into strategic insights suitable for diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated success in enhancing performance, minimizing waste, and creating measurable value within an organization.
• Strong commercial and strategic acumen linking financial, clinical, and operational perspectives.

Why Join Southern Cross

At Southern Cross, there is a strong focus on investment in people, technology, and mission-driven work. The organization continues to build its capabilities and strengthen foundations even amidst market uncertainties. Employees have the platform and support to make analytics a core driver of strategic business decisions. The company has gained recognition and trust within New Zealand, ranking highly in corporate reputation indexes.

Southern Cross prides itself on its inclusive and supportive culture, valuing honesty, openness, and care. Employees enjoy excellent work-life balance and are encouraged and rewarded for prioritizing well-being.

Employee Benefits

• Five wellbeing leave days annually.
• Health insurance coverage for employees and immediate family.
• Life insurance and discounts on pet and travel insurance.
• Additional parental leave benefits and support for financial well-being.
• Participation in workplace well-being programs.
• Option to purchase flexible leave for study, volunteering, or family support.
• Annual volunteer day to contribute to causes with colleagues.

Additional Information

The position is based in Auckland and does not offer remote working options. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, demonstrated through active employee-led networks including Rainbow, Māori, Pasifika, Neurodiversity, and Whānau Support groups. Southern Cross has also taken the Pride Pledge, reinforcing its commitment to belonging and inclusion.