Implementation Project Manager at Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections), Nationwide

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Contribute to nationally significant programmes that support safe, effective operations
• Provide critical insights, risk visibility, and recommendations that inform decision‑making
• Remote and flexible working arrangements available, with travel required

Mō te tūnga | About the role

We are seeking an experienced Implementation Project Manager to support operational readiness across our prison network. This role provides a valuable opportunity to contribute to nationally significant programme delivery and to work closely with Sites, Property, and Workstream Leads to ensure effective planning and readiness.

As the Implementation Project Manager, you will be responsible for coordinating the development and delivery of site-based Implementation Plans, ensuring alignment with programme objectives, contractual obligations, departmental priorities, and legislative requirements. Working across multiple sites and workstreams, you will bring together operational input, track progress against readiness milestones, and support effective planning and problem solving.

You will coordinate site operational input into Implementation Plans and support the delivery of all readiness activities and milestones. You will proactively manage risks and issues, identifying potential impacts early and working with stakeholders to develop practical solutions. Clear, timely reporting on progress, risks, and readiness status will be a core part of supporting effective decision making.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

To be successful in this role you will bring:

• Experience in project management, implementation, or operational readiness, with hands on experience working at a local level.
• Strong organisational and planning skills, with a track record of delivering work to agreed milestones and timeframes
• The ability to identify risks and issues early, apply sound judgement, and implement practical solutions to maintain delivery momentum
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with confidence working across sites, workstreams, and diverse stakeholder groups
• An understanding of operational environments, and the ability to work within contractual, policy, and procedural requirements
• A demonstrated commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, health and safety, and safe work practices

Please note: this role involves travel, and therefore, a Full New Zealand Driver Licence essential.   

Ngā painga | The benefits

The midpoint of the salary range is $131,914 per annum and the full range (85%-120%) is $112,127 - $158,297 per annum. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.

Mō mātou | About us

Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Māori in correctional facilities. As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whānau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our Hōkai Rangi strategy.

We value inclusion and diversity in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve. We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.

Tono ināianei | Apply Now

To submit an application and view the position description, click the apply link. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency – applications received via email will not be considered.

When applying, submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.

Applications close on: Sunday the 3^rd of May.

If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact Sarah.Newbold@corrections.govt.nz, or visit careers.corrections.govt.nz.