Supplier Advisor | Kaitohu Whakarato (Fixed Term)

Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai; Wellington; On-site; NZD 81,000 - 102,000; Full time

Job summary

Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai in Wellington is seeking a driven Supplier Advisor to lead end-to-end procurement and collaborate with internal stakeholders and suppliers. The role focuses on delivering value-for-money outcomes across the full procurement lifecycle, from strategy to supplier management, within a centre-led, category-based model.

Based in Wellington with flexibility for other locations for the right candidate, this full-time fixed-term position provides parental

Qualifications

• 2+ years in procurement or category management.
• Knowledge of Government Procurement Rules preferred.
• Strong analytical and stakeholder negotiation skills.
• Experience in contract documentation and contract law.
• Ability to build strong internal and external partnerships.
• Tertiary qualification in procurement preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end procurement processes from planning to negotiation.
• Perform market research, spend analysis and identify savings opportunities.
• Collaborate with business groups on value-for-money outcomes.
• Draft and review contracts ensuring alignment with needs.
• Manage supplier performance, panels and preferred suppliers.
• Support development of procurement tools and templates.

Skills

Procurement

Stakeholder management

Contract negotiation

Analytical skills

Relationship building

Team collaboration

MCIPS (studying)

Education

Tertiary qualification in procurement

Job description

Are you passionate about nature? Combine your passions for procurement and conservation in these roles which are critical to achieving the Department’s goals Full time, fixed term role until 29 October 2027 Wellington location preferred – open to consider other locations Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa Mō te tūranga |

About the role

We’re looking for a driven Supplier Advisor to join our Conservation Services Category within the Procurement Team and help shape how DOC partners with suppliers to support conservation efforts across Aotearoa. At DOC, procurement is more than just contracts — it's about building strategic, value-driven partnerships that support frontline staff and advance our Treaty commitments. We're operating under a centre-led, category-based model to deliver smarter, more effective services — and we need your expertise to make it happen. As a Supplier Advisor, you’ll work collaboratively with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to deliver meaningful procurement outcomes. Your work will span the full procurement lifecycle, from strategy to supplier management. The role will be focussed on: Conducting continuous market research and spend analysis to identify trends, savings opportunities, and process improvements Partnering with business groups to understand value-for-money outcomes and category objectives Leading end-to-end procurement processes, including planning, RFx development, tender evaluations, and contract negotiation Advising on procurement strategy, approach-to-market options, and cross-agency initiatives Reviewing and drafting contracts to ensure feasibility and alignment with organisational needs Managing supplier performance, preferred supplier lists, and panel arrangements to drive compliance, value, and continuous improvement Supporting the development and improvement of procurement tools, templates, and processes

This is a full time, fixed term role until 29 October 2027 providing parental leave cover. This role is based in Wellington, but other locations will be considered for the right candidate.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako

• 2+ years' relevant experience in a similar procurement/ category management role
• knowledge of the Government Procurement Rules would be viewed favourably
• Strong analytical skills to review complex commercial situations and provide pragmatic solutions to stakeholders
• Experience in influencing and negotiating with stakeholders, suppliers, and senior managers
• Experience in managing contractual processes - evidenced by robust contract documentation and sound understanding of contract law
• Strong relationship building and partnering experience, with ability to work collaboratively with team members and internal & external stakeholders
• A tertiary qualification or commensurate experience in procurement and/or the commercial sector preferred
• An understanding of why the Māori Crown relationship is important to DOC
• Desirable: Studying towards MCIPS would be a bonus

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you?

DOC is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re driven by our values and behaviours, and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default. We also support flexible working arrangements for our kaimahi across Aotearoa, with options considered based on the role and in discussion with your leader.

Rā whakakapi

Salary: $80,695–$101,951, depending on skills and experience. Eligibility: You must hold a valid New Zealand work visa that covers the duration of employment. Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday, 4 October 2026.

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Sharon Gamble, Category Lead, at [e-mail].

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

The Department of Conservation, Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive. Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata. Our people bring this vision to life. Spread across Aotearoa, they care for our land, water, and native species. From frontline rangers and technical experts to vital support teams - we have a diverse range of roles.

Read more about DOC