Strategic Contracts & Partnerships Lead

New Zealand Government; Auckland; Hybrid; NZD 117,000 - 136,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life cover

Insurance discounts

Free will services

Mortgage broker services

Job summary

New Zealand Defence Force is seeking an experienced commercial contract professional to manage high-value supplier relationships and drive performance across strategically important contracts. You will develop governance frameworks, provide expert commercial advice, and ensure alignment with NZDF objectives.

The role involves travelling domestically, supporting continuous improvement, and working in a flexible environment with security clearance requirements.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in strategic contract management, supplier relationship management, procurement, or commercial management.
• Strong commercial acumen and contract management expertise with a focus on value, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Experience developing commercial strategies, governance frameworks, and performance measures.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain Contract Management Plans and benefits delivery frameworks.
• Ensure suppliers deliver high-quality services that support NZDF operations.
• Provide expert commercial advice throughout the procurement lifecycle.
• Lead a portfolio of high-value contracts and influence supplier performance and governance.

Skills

Strategic contracting

Supplier mgmt

Negotiation

Stakeholder mgmt

Procurement

Job description

New Zealand Defence Force is seeking an experienced commercial contract professional to manage high-value supplier relationships and drive performance across strategically important contracts. You will develop governance frameworks, provide expert commercial advice, and ensure alignment with NZDF objectives.

The role involves travelling domestically, supporting continuous improvement, and working in a flexible environment with security clearance requirements.