Contract Manager at Ministry of Health, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Use your expertise to genuinely influence outcomes for Aotearoa NZ
• Wellington Based | Fulltime | Permanent
• Salary range of $120,997 to $133,096 dependent on experience

Ko tōu ake mahi - What you'll do
As a Contract Manager, you'll play a pivotal role in ensuring the Ministry secures value, manages risk effectively, and delivers high'quality services to communities. This is an opportunity to shape commercial outcomes at a national level-working across varied programmes of work, strengthening supplier relationships, and supporting evidence'informed decision'making. If you thrive in a dynamic environment, enjoy solving complex problems, and want to contribute to work that upholds equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations, this role offers the scope and purpose you're seeking.

• Lead end'to'end contract management, including negotiations, drafting, execution, variations, renewals, and performance monitoring, ensuring alignment with organisational requirements and All'of'Government frameworks.
• Strengthen commercial performance by tracking budgets and KPIs, identifying risks and opportunities, and supporting value'for'money assessments and robust governance.
• Drive best'practice contract management, improving frameworks, standards, and methodologies while providing expert advice, training, and analysis to build capability across the Ministry.
• Collaborate across the organisation, working closely with legal, finance, procurement, and operational teams to ensure compliant, efficient, and effective contract delivery.
• Cultivate trusted relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders, ensuring contracts support strategic priorities, uphold equity principles, and contribute to continuous improvement.

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What you'll bring

• Demonstrated capability in managing the full contract lifecycle, from negotiation and performance oversight through to risk evaluation, consistently delivering strong commercial outcomes in complex or public'sector environments
• Strong working knowledge of procurement policy, government contracting standards, and compliance requirements, ensuring all decisions are legally robust, transparent, and aligned with organisational expectations.
• Exceptional relationship'building and communication skills, allowing you to influence stakeholders, maintain trust, and facilitate effective collaboration across teams.
• Advanced analytical and problem'solving capability, with the ability to interpret data, assess emerging risks, provide sound advice, and recommend practical, evidence'based solutions.
• A high level of professionalism and political awareness, using sound judgement, discretion, and digital proficiency (including contract management systems and MS Office) to manage sensitive information and drive confident decision'making.

Ngā hua o tō mātou whare - What we bring
Discover a world of opportunities for personal and professional growth. We're not just a workplace; we're a whanau that values your well-being and the importance of work-life balance. At Manatū Hauora, we value the authentic 'you', ensuring that every voice is heard and every perspective matters. Your wellness is our priority, with comprehensive support and resources to keep you thriving.

Join us today and be part of a team dedicated to improving healthcare.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings. Please contact us if you require any support to ensure the recruitment process is accessible.

Me pēhea te tono mai - How to apply
Applications close on Monday 25 May 2026.

Click here to view the position description. Please follow the online process at our Careers Website. Please ensure you upload a CV and covering letter with all applications. If you have any questions, email the recruitment team at recruitment@health.govt.nz.

We are reviewing applications as they come in and should we receive a high number of applications this job may close prior to the closing date.

We are not receiving recruitment agency submissions at this time.