Senior Contracts Manager

Help shape the future of education in New Zealand Help shape the future of Education We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system. About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga * Permanent, fulltime opportunity * Wellington-based Are you an experienced contract manager with a passion for fostering strong supplier relationships and driving effective contract outcomes? We have an exciting opportunity for you to make a significant impact as a Senior Contract Manager within Te Poutāhū’s Contract Management team! In this senior role, you’ll work closely with both the broader team and the Ministry’s Commercial and Procurement team to ensure all commercial and contract management activities align with strategic objectives, policies, and frameworks. You’ll manage medium-risk and value contracts, supporting complex supplier relationships while ensuring risks and issues are identified and managed effectively. In this role you will: * Oversee low to medium-risk contracts, ensuring compliance with Ministry policies, governance, and financial management. * Actively contribute to Supplier Relationship Management objectives and maintain strong, cooperative relationships with suppliers and stakeholders. * Track contract performance, timelines, and budget, ensuring that outcomes align with Ministry expectations. * Engage with suppliers and internal teams to resolve contractual issues, escalating complex matters when necessary. * Facilitate contract reviews, negotiations, and ensure terms are understood and adhered to by all parties. * Provide support and guidance to junior contract management team members. Salary range: $100,296 - $121,490 per annum + KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience. For more details about the role, you can view the job description here. About you | Mōhou ake We are looking for candidates who thrive in structured environments and have a strong attention to details, ensuring all aspects of contract management are handled efficiently and accurately. You will bring an interpersonal savviness that means you relate well to all kinds of people, excelling in building and maintaining effective relationships with internal teams, suppliers and stakeholders. To be successful in this role you will offer: * Strong problem-solving abilities and a keen eye for identifying and addressing complex issues. * Expertise in risk assessment and mitigation in contract management activities. * Ability to navigate and negotiate commercial contracts with confidence. * Knowledge of fostering positive supplier relationships for optimal contract outcomes. * Experience in leading and mentoring junior staff to drive team success. * The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct. If you are looking for a rewarding senior role where your contract management expertise, attention to detail and relationship building skills will truly make a difference we would love to hear from you. About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake The purpose of Te Poutāhū is to lead the national curricula for Aotearoa New Zealand and associated systems and processes of assessment and aromatawai. We design, develop and provide curriculum services for teachers, kaiako, leaders, ākonga, their whānau and communities that reflect their identities, languages and cultures. We bring together curriculum, teaching expertise and evidence for the development, support and review of inclusive curricula, assessment and NCEA. Our strengths are across te reo Māori, mātauranga Māori, disability, inclusive learning support and culturally relevant content so that Te Mahau supports learning that is inclusive for all ākonga. We support the people who are closest to, and directly serve, ākonga and whānau. We do this through Te Mahau where we connect with the sector, working collaboratively to identify priorities and design local solutions. Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi? If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role. For further information, please contact Shaun Hawthorne, Manager, Professional Development and Services at [email protected] Applications close Midnight – Wednesday, 5 August 2026. We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.