Implementation Project Manager at Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections), Wellington (Te Whanganui a Tara)

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Contribute to nationally significant programmes that support safe, effective operations
• Secondment opportunity running from 15 June 2026 through to 28 February 2027.
• Located at National Office, in Wellington.

Mō te tūnga | About the role

We are seeking expressions of interest for an Implementation Project Manager to support operational readiness activities 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 coordinate the development and delivery of site-based Implementation Plans, ensuring alignment with programme objectives, contractual obligations, and departmental priorities. The role is responsible for tracking workstream progress, managing risks and issues, supporting problem-solving across sites, and providing accurate and timely reporting to the Operational Readiness Lead.

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 secondment 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

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

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

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 outlining your suitability for the role and what you would bring to the Operational Readiness Team.

Applications close on: Thursday the 18^th of June.

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.