Principal Service Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Service Design Manager

Company: SA Health

Location: Country SA - Location negotiable, To be negotiated, Various (Saudi Arabia)

Job Type: Temporary | Full-Time (3-Year Contract)

Category: Operations Management / Service Design / Healthcare Transformation

Date Posted: 2026-06-26

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site (with potential for negotiation within the region)

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive strategic service design and transformation initiatives within the Limestone Coast Local Health Network (LCLHN).

• Lead continuous improvement efforts to enhance service delivery, organizational performance, and consumer outcomes.

• Provide high-level strategic advice and influence executive decision-making for healthcare reform.

• Manage large-scale programs and projects within a complex, multidisciplinary public health environment.

• Ensure alignment with the LCLHN's Clinical Services Plan and strategic priorities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is multi-classified as ASO8 (Administrative Services Officer), AHP4 (Allied Health Professional), or RN/M4 (Registered Nurse/Midwife). Appointment will depend on the successful applicant's qualifications and background, indicating a need for diverse operational expertise within the health sector. The emphasis on "Service Design" and "Transformation" positions this role firmly within the strategic operations and GTM (Go-To-Market, in a broader sense of service delivery) domain, focusing on optimizing the delivery and effectiveness of health services.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for service design, transformation, and continuous improvement across the Limestone Coast Local Health Network.

• Lead the development and execution of system-wide reform initiatives aimed at enhancing service delivery, organizational performance, and patient/consumer outcomes.

• Collaborate closely with Executive Directors, senior leaders, and key stakeholders to influence strategic decision-making and shape the future delivery of health services.

• Manage and oversee the implementation of large-scale programs and projects, ensuring the delivery of measurable outcomes and achievement of strategic objectives.

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, fostering a collaborative environment for service redesign and improvement.

• Contribute to organizational planning and reform by providing expert, high-level strategic advice to executive leadership.

• Ensure all service design and transformation activities are aligned with the LCLHN's Clinical Services Plan and broader SA Health strategic objectives.

• Drive a culture of continuous improvement by identifying opportunities, implementing best practices, and monitoring performance metrics.

• Oversee budget and resource allocation for service design and transformation projects, ensuring efficient and effective use of public funds.

• Stay abreast of industry trends, innovations, and best practices in healthcare service design, transformation, and operational excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a strategic, leadership-focused role central to operational effectiveness within a public health network. The emphasis on "service design," "transformation," and "continuous improvement" aligns with modern operations management principles, requiring a deep understanding of process optimization, stakeholder alignment, and outcome-driven project execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications (e.g., Bachelor's degree) are required. Specific disciplines may vary based on the appointed classification (e.g., Public Health, Health Administration, Nursing, Allied Health, Business Management). Experience:

• Extensive experience (10+ years suggested by AI analysis) in leading strategic service redesign, transformation, or organizational improvement initiatives, preferably within a complex public sector or healthcare environment.

• Proven track record of managing large-scale programs or projects and delivering measurable outcomes.

• Demonstrated experience in providing high-level strategic advice to executive leadership and contributing to organizational planning and reform. Required Skills:

• Strategic Leadership: Ability to set vision, direction, and drive organizational change.

• Service Design Methodologies: Proficiency in frameworks and techniques for designing and optimizing services.

• Transformation Management: Experience in leading significant organizational change and reform.

• Continuous Improvement: Expertise in methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvement frameworks.

• Stakeholder Engagement & Influencing: Highly developed skills in building relationships and influencing decisions across multidisciplinary teams and leadership levels.

• Project & Program Management: Proven ability to manage complex, large-scale initiatives from conception to completion.

• Strategic Planning: Capacity to contribute to and align with organizational strategic plans.

• Executive Advisory: Skill in providing concise, high-impact strategic advice to senior leadership.

• Data Analysis & Interpretation: Ability to use data to inform design decisions and measure outcomes.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication for reporting, presentations, and stakeholder management.

Preferred Skills:

• Clinical Service Planning: Specific experience in developing or contributing to clinical service plans.

• Public Health Operations: Understanding of the unique operational challenges and regulatory environment of public health systems.

• Change Management Frameworks: Familiarity with established change management models.

• Financial Management & Budgeting: Experience managing budgets for large projects.

• Relevant Professional Registration: Current professional registration where applicable to the appointed classification (e.g., Nursing, specific Allied Health professions).

📝 Enhancement Note: The multi-classification aspect suggests that candidates from diverse backgrounds (administration, allied health, nursing) can be successful, provided they possess the core strategic leadership and service design competencies. The emphasis on "stakeholder engagement" and "influencing skills" is critical for navigating complex public sector environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Service Redesign Case Studies: Demonstrations of leading and executing significant service redesign initiatives, outlining the process, challenges, solutions, and measurable outcomes achieved.

• Transformation Project Examples: Evidence of managing and successfully delivering complex organizational transformation programs, highlighting strategic planning, implementation, and impact.

• Continuous Improvement Initiatives: Documentation of projects focused on optimizing existing processes, improving efficiency, and enhancing service quality, with clear metrics for success.

• Strategic Advisory Documentation: Examples of high-level advice provided to executive leadership, showcasing strategic thinking, problem-solving, and impact on organizational direction.

• Stakeholder Management Plans/Outcomes: Evidence of successful engagement strategies for diverse stakeholder groups within complex organizational structures.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to map, analyze, and redesign complex service workflows to improve efficiency, patient experience, and clinical outcomes.

• Implementation & Automation Strategies: Experience in planning and executing the rollout of new processes or technologies, including change management and adoption strategies.

• Performance Measurement & Analysis: Proficiency in defining key performance indicators (KPIs) for service delivery and transformation initiatives, and using data analytics to track progress and identify areas for further improvement.

• Risk Management: Processes for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with service design and transformation projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on service design and transformation, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of these skills is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their process for identifying needs, designing solutions, managing implementation, and measuring impact, using specific examples from their career.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• ASO8: AUD $125,649 - $130,392 p.a.

• AHP4: AUD $123,048 - $133,957 p.a.

• RN/M4: AUD $137,464 - $143,282 p.a. (These figures are based on the provided job description and are indicative of public sector salary scales in South Australia.)

Benefits:

• 12% Superannuation (Pension/Retirement Contribution)

• Leave Loading (Additional payment for accrued leave)

• Salary Sacrifice options (Tax-effective salary arrangements)

• Salary Packaging (Benefits offered through salary sacrifice)

• Wellbeing Initiatives (Programs focused on employee health and wellness)

• Professional Development opportunities (Support for training, courses, and skill enhancement)

• Flexible Working Options (Potential for adaptable work arrangements, subject to operational needs) Working Hours:

• Full-Time, approximately 40 hours per week. Specific hours may be negotiable within operational requirements, aligning with the "Flexible Working Options" benefit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary ranges are clearly defined by classification. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting typical offerings in the Australian public health sector, with a strong emphasis on employee well-being and professional growth, which are key considerations for operations professionals seeking long-term career satisfaction.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare (Public Sector)

Company Size: SA Health is a large government department, and the Limestone Coast Local Health Network (LCLHN) itself employs over 1,800 staff, indicating a significant operational scale and complex organizational structure.

Founded: SA Health operates under the South Australian government, with a long history of providing public health services. LCLHN serves a specific region.

Team Structure:

• The Principal Service Design Manager reports to the Executive Director – Operations.

• The role involves extensive collaboration with Executive Leaders and key stakeholders across various clinical and corporate portfolios within the LCLHN.

• This suggests a matrixed reporting structure common in large organizations, requiring strong cross-functional leadership. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: The emphasis on "measurable outcomes" and "performance improvement" points to a data-centric approach to operations and service delivery.

• Collaborative Reform: The role is expected to work "collaboratively" to drive "system-wide reform initiatives," indicating a partnership-oriented methodology.

• Strategic Planning & Execution: The role is integral to delivering the "Clinical Services Plan," requiring robust strategic planning and execution capabilities.

• Continuous Improvement Culture: The focus on "continuous improvement" suggests an organizational commitment to ongoing process optimization and service enhancement.

Company Website:

• SA Health: https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/

• LCLHN Clinical Services Plan: http://www2.sahealth.ha.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/d4a81cbc-21d3-4e2c-b96e-6c85c388e551/LCLHN+Clinical+Services+Plan+2025-2035.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CACHEID=ROOTWORKSPACE-d4a81cbc-21d3-4e2c-b96e-6c85c388e551-pCY9Vwt

📝 Enhancement Note: The public health sector context is crucial. Operations professionals in this role will need to navigate government regulations, public accountability, and diverse stakeholder needs, while driving efficiency and quality improvements within a mission-driven organization focused on community well-being.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Principal-level role, indicating a senior position with significant strategic responsibility and leadership scope within the operations and service design domain. It sits high within the organizational hierarchy, influencing policy and strategic direction.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Executive Director – Operations, a senior executive role. This placement signifies high visibility and direct impact on key operational strategies and outcomes for the LCLHN.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the effectiveness, efficiency, and accessibility of health services across a large regional network. Success means tangible improvements in patient care, operational performance, and the sustainability of health service delivery, contributing significantly to the LCLHN's mission and the well-being of the community.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to higher executive roles within SA Health or other large healthcare organizations, such as Director of Operations, Chief Operating Officer, or similar strategic leadership positions.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of healthcare service design, health system reform, or operational strategy.

• Cross-Sectoral Experience: Opportunities to apply service design and transformation skills to other sectors if desired, leveraging the transferable nature of these competencies.

• Mentorship & Influence: Opportunity to mentor junior staff and influence broader health policy and practice within the region and potentially the state.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, this role offers a unique opportunity to lead significant change in a critical public service sector. The "Principal" title and direct reporting line to an Executive Director suggest substantial autonomy and a direct line of sight to organizational strategy and impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a leadership role within a public health network, suggesting a professional office environment within a hospital or administrative complex. While the role is classified as "On-site," the mention of "Location negotiable within the Limestone Coast Local Health Network" implies a degree of flexibility in the specific base location within the region.

Office Location(s): Various sites within the Limestone Coast Local Health Network in South Australia. This region is known for its coastal scenery and regional lifestyle, offering a balance between professional demands and quality of life.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires extensive collaboration with executive leaders, clinical staff, administrative teams, and external stakeholders. Expect a dynamic, fast-paced environment that necessitates strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Operational Tools & Technology: Access to standard office productivity suites, project management software, and potentially specialized healthcare information systems and data analytics platforms will be expected.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with senior leadership, operational teams, and potentially frontline health professionals to understand service needs and drive change.

Work Schedule: Full-time (approximately 40 hours/week), with potential for flexible arrangements as outlined in benefits. This flexibility is crucial for operations roles that often require balancing strategic planning with responsive problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "negotiable location" within a specific health network is a key aspect for candidates. It suggests that while the role is on-site, there's an opportunity to align the specific work base with personal preferences within the LCLHN's service area, which could be a significant draw for those seeking regional living.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application against essential qualifications and experience.

• First Interview: Likely a panel interview with senior leadership (e.g., Executive Director – Operations, HR representatives, possibly clinical leaders) to assess strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and stakeholder management skills.

• Second Interview/Assessment: May involve a presentation, case study, or psychometric assessment to evaluate problem-solving, analytical abilities, and suitability for the specific classification.

• Final Interview: Potentially with higher-level executives or a selection committee.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Showcase how your service design and transformation initiatives led to measurable improvements in service delivery, patient outcomes, or operational efficiency. Quantify results wherever possible.

• Process Articulation: Clearly outline your approach to service design – from needs assessment and stakeholder consultation to solution development, implementation, and evaluation.

• Case Study Structure: For each significant project, use a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework to present compelling narratives. Highlight your specific role and contributions.

• Alignment with LCLHN Goals: Tailor your portfolio to demonstrate experience relevant to public healthcare challenges and the LCLHN's Clinical Services Plan.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Emphasize your ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, influence stakeholders, and drive change in complex environments.

Challenge Preparation:

• Service Redesign Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario requiring you to outline an approach to redesign a specific health service within the LCLHN, considering constraints and stakeholder needs.

• Strategic Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions about how you would address common challenges in healthcare operations, such as resource constraints, service access, or quality improvement.

• Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you have managed complex stakeholder relationships, resolved conflicts, and built consensus for change.

• Data Interpretation: Be ready to discuss how you use data to inform strategic decisions and measure the success of operational initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The multi-classification nature of the role means interviewers will be looking for different skill sets depending on the applicant's background. However, the core requirements around strategic leadership, service design, and transformation will be universally assessed. A strong portfolio that clearly articulates process and impact is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Trello, or Jira for managing complex transformation projects.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and workflow management.

• Presentation Software: Advanced skills in Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides for executive briefings and stakeholder presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence Tools: Familiarity with tools like Power BI, Tableau, or QlikView for data visualization, dashboard creation, and performance reporting related to service metrics.

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for data manipulation, analysis, and reporting.

• Data Analysis Techniques: Understanding of statistical analysis, data interpretation, and the ability to translate data into actionable insights for service improvement.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly mentioned, experience with CRM systems (if applicable to patient relationship management or provider networks) or workflow automation tools could be beneficial, especially in understanding system integration for service delivery.

• Healthcare Information Systems: Familiarity with Electronic Health Records (EHRs), Hospital Information Systems (HIS), or similar healthcare-specific data systems is highly advantageous for understanding the operational context.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, the nature of the role implies a need for strong analytical, project management, and presentation skills. Familiarity with data visualization tools and project management software is essential for driving and reporting on operational improvements. Experience with healthcare-specific systems would be a significant asset.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient-Centricity: A core value in healthcare operations, ensuring all service design and improvement efforts prioritize patient well-being and experience.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Essential for working across diverse clinical and administrative departments to achieve shared goals.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to high standards in service delivery and continuous improvement.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding public sector standards and being responsible for outcomes.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Willingness to explore new approaches and adapt to evolving healthcare needs and technologies.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively seeks to bridge gaps between different departments (e.g., clinical, administrative, IT, finance) to ensure seamless service delivery.

• Evidence-Based Approach: Relies on data and best practices to inform decisions and drive consensus.

• Open Communication: Fosters an environment where feedback is encouraged, and challenges are discussed openly to find solutions.

• Partnership: Works as a partner with clinical and operational leaders to co-create solutions and drive change initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values are reflective of a public service organization focused on community health. Operations professionals will thrive here if they are mission-driven, collaborative, and committed to continuous improvement within a structured, yet dynamic, environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Bureaucracy: Public sector organizations can have complex approval processes and governance structures that require patience and strategic navigation.

• Resource Constraints: Balancing ambitious transformation goals with limited budgets and resources is a common challenge in public healthcare.

• Resistance to Change: Implementing significant reforms can face resistance from various stakeholders; effective change management is key.

• Geographic Dispersion: Managing services across a wide geographic network like the Limestone Coast presents logistical and communication challenges.

• Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Aligning the needs and expectations of patients, clinicians, administrators, and government bodies can be complex.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Health System Management: Deepen understanding of public health policy, strategy, and operational management.

• Specialized Service Design: Gain expertise in specific areas of healthcare service innovation and patient journey mapping.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to SA Health's leadership training and development opportunities.

• Industry Conferences & Networks: Opportunity to attend relevant healthcare and operations management conferences to stay abreast of trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior executives within SA Health or to mentor emerging leaders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Overcoming these challenges presents significant growth opportunities. The role allows for developing robust change management skills, strategic negotiation abilities, and a deep understanding of complex health system operations, all valuable for career progression in operations and leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading a large-scale service transformation within a public health network. Walk us through the key phases and your role in each." (Focus on process, stakeholder engagement, risk management, and outcome measurement).

• "How would you address potential resistance from clinical staff when introducing a new service delivery model? Provide specific examples of your influencing strategies." (Highlight communication, collaboration, and evidence-based approaches).

• "Given the LCLHN's Clinical Services Plan, how would you prioritize and scope potential service design initiatives to ensure maximum impact and alignment with strategic objectives?" (Demonstrate strategic thinking, prioritization skills, and understanding of organizational goals). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you understand about the unique operational challenges and opportunities within the Australian public healthcare system, specifically in a regional setting like the Limestone Coast?" (Show research into SA Health and LCLHN, and an understanding of public sector operations).

• "How do you foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within operational teams?" (Discuss methodologies, team engagement, and empowerment).

• "Describe a time you had to deliver difficult strategic advice to executive leadership. How did you prepare and present your recommendations?" (Focus on data, clarity, and impact). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Executive Summary: Start with a concise overview of your most impactful projects, highlighting key metrics and achievements.

• Deep Dive on 1-2 Key Projects: Select projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in strategic leadership, service design, and transformation. Use the STAR method to detail the situation, your tasks, actions, and the measurable results.

• Process Walkthrough: Clearly articulate the methodologies and tools you used in your projects. Be prepared to discuss your problem-solving process and decision-making rationale.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, present quantitative data (e.g., percentage improvements in efficiency, cost savings, patient satisfaction scores) to demonstrate the tangible outcomes of your work.

• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your projects, your approach, and how your experience translates to the specific needs of the Principal Service Design Manager role at LCLHN.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic leadership, robust process management, and a deep understanding of the healthcare operational landscape. Tailoring responses and portfolio examples to the public health context and the LCLHN's specific goals will be critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the SA Health Careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your resume and any supplementary portfolio documents to highlight experience in strategic leadership, service design, transformation management, and continuous improvement, with a strong emphasis on healthcare or public sector contexts.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates achievements using metrics and action verbs relevant to operations management and leadership. Tailor it to align with the responsibilities and qualifications outlined, paying attention to the multi-classification requirements.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method for behavioral questions, and prepare to discuss strategic scenarios and present your portfolio with confidence. Research SA Health and the LCLHN's current strategic priorities and challenges.

• Company Research: Thoroughly review the SA Health website, the LCLHN Clinical Services Plan, and any available information about the Limestone Coast region to understand the operational environment, strategic direction, and community context.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization (SA Health) before making application decisions. The listed closing date is Sunday, 12 July 2026.