Innovation & Advanced Analytics Lead

About the Organisation

Southern Cross Health Insurance is working to improve wellbeing across Aotearoa New Zealand. Its mission is to help members live healthier lives for longer by providing timely access to quality care, encouraging healthy habits, and supporting positive change in the wider health system. As a New Zealand-owned, member-focused organisation, it aims to put wellbeing at the centre of everything it does while creating strong value for members and a workplace where people can do their best work.

The organisation is in an exciting phase of growth, offering the chance to join a high-performing, values-led team where people come first and individual contribution can make a meaningful difference.

About the Role

This senior leadership position sits within a growing Data & AI function and is responsible for building the organisation’s analytics, machine learning and AI capability. The role focuses on shaping how data is used across the business, establishing the practice, guiding the team, and turning reliable data into better outcomes for members.

Reporting to the Head of Data & AI, you will lead the data transformation practice built on Snowflake and dbt, and expand it into machine learning, MLOps and in-platform AI. You will also develop and manage a team of analytics engineers and data scientists working on key intelligence initiatives.

Because the team is still taking shape, this role will influence how the function is designed, including its working methods, technical expectations, and collaboration across both the Data & AI group and the wider organisation.

What You Will Do

• Lead the analytics engineering practice, including data modelling, transformation, dbt standards, testing, and documentation.
• Convert raw information into trusted, well-structured data within the Snowflake warehouse.
• Develop machine learning and AI capability within the Snowflake environment, covering MLOps, model monitoring, and feature stores.
• Apply Snowflake and dbt’s built-in AI capabilities where they clearly add value.
• Deliver data products and intelligent solutions that support measurable business outcomes.
• Create frameworks to demonstrate value and return on investment.
• Manage, coach, and grow a team of analytics engineers and data scientists.
• Work with stakeholders to turn business challenges into models and data products.
• Define the roadmap and standards for analytics engineering, MLOps, and AI across the function.

What You Need

• Strong practical experience with both dbt and Snowflake; the role requires someone who can contribute immediately.
• Solid expertise in analytics engineering, including data modelling, transformation patterns, and applying software engineering principles to data work.
• Hands-on background in machine learning and MLOps, including building, deploying, and monitoring models in production.
• Exposure to in-platform AI tools such as Snowflake Cortex, dbt AI features, or similar platforms like Databricks.
• At least 8 years of experience across databases, BI tools, and analytics, along with advanced SQL and Python skills.
• Experience leading technical teams and supporting the growth of others.
• The ability to link technical work to business value and explain it clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• A relevant degree in data science, finance, or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience.

Why Join

Southern Cross is investing heavily in its people, technology, and long-term mission. The organisation is continuing to strengthen its foundations and build capability, and this role comes with executive support, a clear mandate, and the chance to shape data and AI practice at scale.

The business is gaining momentum, with growing teams, stronger employer visibility, and external recognition including 8th place in the Kantar Corporate Reputation Index in 2026 and 5th in New Zealand for trust.

Culture and Values

The organisation describes itself through the values of Ngākau nui, Āhurutanga and Tikanga. It offers a caring, honest and open culture for people who value belonging, wellbeing and collaboration. Professional development is encouraged, and work-life balance is actively supported.

Employee Benefits

• Five wellbeing leave days each year.
• Health insurance cover for you and your immediate whānau.
• Life insurance plus discounts on pet and travel insurance.
• Additional parental leave benefits and financial wellbeing support.
• Access to a workplace wellbeing programme.
• The option to buy flexi leave for study, volunteering, or supporting your whānau.
• An annual volunteer day to support a cause with your team.

Location

This position is based in Auckland. Remote working is not available, and candidates from other locations are not being considered for remote arrangements.

Diversity and Inclusion

The organisation has taken the Pride Pledge and is committed to inclusion and belonging. It also supports an employee-led Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Forum that includes the Rainbow Network, Māori Network, Pasifika Collective, and Neurodiversity and Whānau Support networks.

Additional Information

Candidates with questions can refer to the organisation’s FAQs for help with the application and recruitment process.

If you share the commitment to the mission and values, the organisation welcomes your interest.