Senior Contract Specialist

Role Overview

Join NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi as a Senior Contract Specialist in Auckland or Wellington, focusing on managing and influencing a comprehensive portfolio of strategic digital supplier contracts and ensuring excellent commercial outcomes and performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage multiple digital supplier agreements throughout their lifecycle.
• Collaborate closely with business owners, project teams, procurement, and suppliers to ensure contracts meet objectives.
• Mitigate risks and maintain fit-for-purpose commercial arrangements.
• Engage stakeholders in Digital and business teams to provide governance reporting and commercial advisory support.
• Contribute to shaping sourcing strategies and managing technology suppliers critical to agency services.
• Lead strategic supplier relationship management, commercial negotiations, and contract administration.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in contract and supplier management, procurement, or commercial roles.
• Proven background handling contracts in technology, software, telecom, infrastructure, or managed services.
• Knowledge of public sector procurement, Government Procurement Rules, and commercial practices.
• Strong commercial acumen with negotiation expertise.
• Excellent communication skills capable of influencing senior stakeholders and suppliers.
• Sharp analytical, risk, and issue management abilities.
• Collaborative, pragmatic with confident problem-solving approach.
• Able to translate complex commercial matters into actionable business advice.
• Solid understanding of technology services, software, managed services, or digital delivery environments.
• Experience using SAP Ariba procurement platform.

About NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

Our mission is to provide transport networks that benefit people, places, and New Zealand. The Digital team supports this through modern, innovative digital and technology solutions that enhance outcomes for all stakeholders. We value future-focused, inclusive, and collaborative work cultures.

Benefits and Workplace Culture

• Flexible working options.
• Five weeks of annual leave.
• Life, income protection, and critical illness insurance for permanent employees.
• Opportunities for career growth and capability development.
• The chance to contribute to meaningful projects impacting New Zealanders.

Additional Information

Applications close on 26 July 2026. Candidates must have legal rights to work and live in New Zealand. Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Early applications are encouraged as shortlisting may begin before the closing date and the role could be withdrawn at any time. For queries, contact [email protected].