This is the text extract for Analyst vacancy - closes 30 November 2009, browse documents here.

PHARMAC is the government agency responsible for ensuring New Zealanders have access to a wide range of affordable medicines. As an international leader in pharmaceutical management PHARMAC makes a vital contribution to New Zealand’s health outcomes. The people who work at PHARMAC come from diverse backgrounds in pharmacy, science, medicine, commerce, economics, social marketing and primary health care. All are committed to making a difference to the lives of New Zealanders. In turn PHARMAC values their staff and the commitment and professionalism they bring by investing in their development and providing excellent working conditions.

Analyst Role – 12 month fixed term contract – Wellington

• Influence decision making • Contribute to better health outcomes for New Zealanders Analysts at PHARMAC are responsible for ensuring the pharmaceutical budget is forecast and monitored accurately. Analysts support PHARMAC’s key functions of evaluating proposed supply contracts and identifying and evaluating campaigns to improve access to and/or optimal use of medicines. PHARMAC is also committed to improving Māori and Pacific health outcomes and would like to strengthen the analytical capacity of PHARMAC in relation to Māori health data and information. We are keen to hear from applicants with previous experience, or a particular interest, in this area. Candidates may either be experienced analysts, or graduates with some initial entry-level experience as an analyst. You will have a suitable tertiary qualification in Commerce/Economics or Quantitative Analysis. Effective oral and written communication skills are essential for this role.

Analyst: For this role an advanced level of competence with MS Excel and databases is required. Experience with statistical software such as SAS would be an advantage. To be considered for this role, applicants will have at least 3 years’ prior analyst experience and the ability to work relatively independently. Training in PHARMAC processes and systems will be provided. Analysts must be responsive to customer needs and as such the ability to take data and make it meaningful to others is essential. Entry Level Analyst: This role would suit a recent graduate or those with up to a year’s analyst work experience.

This role will mainly focus on monitoring the pharmaceuticals budget, data entry to support forecasting, data extracts and provision of data for reports and to support the work of other teams. Training in PHARMAC processes and systems will be provided. You will need strong numeric ability and a high level of accuracy and attention to detail, and the ability to follow direction and methodical processes. Experience with MS Excel and querying databases is an advantage. Applications including a CV and cover letter outlining why you would be suitable for the position may be emailed to cvwlg@sheffield.co.nz quoting reference number 45347. For more information please phone Jenny Myers on (04) 471 5836. Closing date: Monday 30 November, 2009.