Practice Lead Contract Management

Ministry of Education; Wellington; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 146,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

KiwiSaver

Job summary

The Ministry of Education in Wellington is seeking a Practice Lead - Contract Management to strengthen capability and performance across the organisation. You will act as the centre of expertise for contract management, guiding frameworks, standards, tools and guidance to lift capability and governance.

You will establish performance measures, lead improvement initiatives and provide specialist advice on complex contract matters, working with contract managers, commercial leaders and business

Qualifications

• Significant experience in contract management, commercial management or procurement environments.
• Strong understanding of contract lifecycle management, supplier performance management and governance practices.
• Experience developing frameworks, standards, tools and capability programmes.
• Ability to analyse contract performance information and identify improvement opportunities.
• Excellent communication, facilitation and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and continuous improvement of the ministry's contract management framework, standards, tools and guidance.
• Lift capability, strengthen contract management practice and improve supplier performance.
• Establish performance measurement frameworks and provide specialist advice on complex matters.

Skills

Contract management

Governance

Commercial management

Stakeholder engagement

Job description

Help shape the future of education in New ZealandHelp shape the future of Education We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

This is a full-time permanent position based in Wellington. Help strengthen contract management capability and performance across the Ministry. As Practice Lead - Contract Management, you will act as the Ministry's centre of expertise for contract management, leading the development and continuous improvement of the Ministry's contract management framework, standards, tools and guidance. You will work closely with contract managers, commercial leaders and business groups to lift capability, strengthen contract management practice, improve supplier and contract performance, and maximise value from contractual arrangements. This role focuses on developing organisational capability and maturity in contract management. You will establish performance measurement frameworks, lead improvement initiatives, support communities of practice, and provide specialist advice on complex contract management matters. Using contract performance insights and evidence-based approaches, you will help drive better supplier outcomes, stronger governance and greater value from the Ministry's commercial arrangements.

Salary range: $120,171 - $145,560 per annum + KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience. For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here Practice Lead Contract Management

About you | Mōhou ake

You are an experienced commercial or contract management professional with a passion for improving contract management capability, performance and outcomes. You enjoy influencing others, developing practical solutions, and helping organisations mature their contract management practices.

• Significant experience in contract management, commercial management or procurement environments.
• Strong understanding of contract lifecycle management, supplier performance management and governance practices.
• Experience developing frameworks, standards, tools and capability programmes.
• Ability to analyse contract performance information and identify improvement opportunities.
• Excellent communication, facilitation and stakeholder engagement skills The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

You'll join a collaborative and supportive team that is focused on creating lasting improvements in commercial performance. This role offers the opportunity to influence contract management practices across a large and complex organisation.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Pou Rangatōpū | Corporate has two key roles which operate together: keeping the Ministry safe by delivering essential Ministry-wide statutory and corporate functions and delivering improvements to how the Ministry works, so we can achieve our priorities and support the Ministry to deliver the current Government's priorities.

Our team support the Ministry to achieve better outcomes through effective commercial and procurement practices. We provide expertise across sourcing, contract management, supplier management and commercial governance. Working across a broad portfolio of contracts and suppliers, our team helps business groups strengthen performance, improve commercial capability and deliver value for money.

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

For further information, please contact Chris Richards at [e-mail] Applications close Midnight Wednesday 11 November 2026. We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.