Programme Manager at NZ Defence Force, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

The Defence Health Programme (DHP) will uplift health capability over three years by improving health information systems and renewing health equipment in the NZDF. The aim of the programme approach is to align multiple lines of effort, set more realistic priorities, control access to scarce health resources and provide unified executive oversight.

You will provide high quality Programme and Project Management (P2M), advice and co-ordination to deliver initiatives and outputs that support the objectives of the DHP. This includes management and co-ordination of all supporting functions, administration and information management and support to the Branch and wider working groups. You will liaise with other key stakeholders within the NZDF, and with other government agencies to ensure an integrated and effective approach to the programmes.

This is a three-year fixed term opportunity, working across two locations – Wellington CBD and Trentham – both close to public transport.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

To be successful in this bespoke role, you will be an experienced and capable programme manager with the ability to effectively communicate and build relationships with a wide range of people. We need you to show us what good programme management looks like. Utilise your strategic thinking skills to make a positive difference to the future of the NZDF.

Ideally, you will have:

• Sound knowledge and experience of programme and project management, and supporting processes and software tools;
• Experience in leading, coaching, mentoring and training programme and project staff;
• Experience and understanding of processes and systems of a complex organisation;
• Discretion with the ability to operate in an in-confidence and/or secure environment with access to sensitive information;
• Experience with SharePoint or a similar document management or intranet system; and
• Proven experience budget management, business improvement and risk management.

It would be advantageous if you have a background in health, with the NZDF or with MOD. 

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning – safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Monday 24 March 2025.

Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves – please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

NZDF is currently undertaking a Workforce Savings Programme (WSP) to realise efficiencies and required enduring savings, which may require NZDF to propose changes to the organisational structure of its civilian workforce. As we progress through the WSP, we will be communicating with our people about any potential impact on roles and structures. We welcome your application for this important role and want to let you know that if the WSP, and any subsequent proposed change process, is likely to impact on the role you are applying for, we will let you know at the earliest opportunity.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here's what you need to know:

Higher Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last ten (10) years.
• You must have a ten (10) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.