Practice Lead Sourcing and Supplier Management

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 146,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

KiwiSaver

Job summary

New Zealand Government is seeking a Practice Lead for Sourcing and Supplier Management in Wellington to advance strategic sourcing, supplier engagement and commercial governance across a major public sector organisation. The role focuses on maturity-building, developing frameworks, and guiding practitioners to deliver consistent, high-quality commercial outcomes for learners and communities.

The successful candidate will advise senior stakeholders, shape policy-aligned guidance, and drive

Qualifications

• Significant experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, supplier management or commercial leadership.
• Strong knowledge of sourcing methodologies, market engagement approaches and supplier relationship management.
• Experience developing frameworks, policies, guidance, capability programmes or operating models.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing skills.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into insights for improvement.
• Commitment to Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and continuous improvement of the Ministry's sourcing and supplier management frameworks, standards, tools and guidance.
• Provide expert advice on sourcing strategy, supplier engagement approaches and supplier relationship management.
• Lift capability and strengthen commercial performance across the Ministry.
• Collaborate with commercial practitioners and leaders across the organisation to lift capability and embed best practice.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Procurement leadership

Supplier relationship management

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical capability

Public sector standards

Job description

Help shape the future of education in New ZealandHelp shape the future of EducationWe work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomesOur 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 | Mo tenei turangaThis is a permanent full-time role based in Wellington.Help shape the way sourcing and supplier management is delivered across one of New Zealand's largest public sector organisations.As Practice Lead - Sourcing Supplier Management, you will act as the Ministry's centre of expertise for sourcing and supplier management, leading the development and continuous improvement of the Ministry's sourcing and supplier management frameworks, standards, tools and guidance. You will work closely with commercial practitioners and leaders across the organisation to lift capability, embed best practice, and strengthen commercial performance across the Ministry.This is a strategic role focused on strengthening organisational maturity rather than delivering sourcing projects yourself. You will provide expert advice on sourcing strategy, supplier engagement approaches and supplier relationship management, while using data and insights to identify opportunities for improvement.You will champion innovation, support economic benefit outcomes, and help ensure sourcing and supplier management activities are consistent, effective, and aligned with Ministry priorities.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 Sourcing and Supplier ManagementAbout you | Mohou akeWe're looking for an experienced commercial or procurement professional who is passionate about improving how organisations approach sourcing and supplier management.You will be comfortable influencing senior stakeholders, translating complex concepts into practical guidance, and driving continuous improvement across a diverse organisation.You will also offer:Significant experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, supplier management or commercial leadership.Strong knowledge of sourcing methodologies, market engagement approaches and supplier relationship management practices.Experience developing frameworks, policies, guidance, capability programmes or operating models.Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing skills.Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate data into meaningful insights and improvement opportunities.The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.You'll join a team that values collaboration, continuous improvement and practical outcomes. This is an opportunity to influence commercial practice at scale and contribute to better outcomes for learners, educators and communities across Aotearoa.About our group and team | Matau ropu akeTe Pou Rangatopu | Corporate has two key roles which operate together:keeping the Ministry safe by delivering essential Ministry-wide statutory and corporate functions anddelivering improvements to how the Ministry works, so we can achieve our priorities and support the Ministry to deliver the current Government's priorities.We help the Ministry obtain maximum value from its commercial relationships and investments. We provide strategic sourcing, commercial advice, supplier management, contract management and commercial governance support across a diverse portfolio of goods and services.The team works alongside business groups across the Ministry to improve commercial capability, strengthen supplier relationships and achieve better outcomes through effective commercial practice.Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mo tenei mahi?If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the `apply' button. In your cover letter we'd like to know about you, your values, or anything else you'd like to share. We're keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.For further information, please contact Chris Richards at [e-mail] 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.