Senior Contract Specialist

Position Overview

Join NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi in Wellington as a Senior Contract Specialist within our Digital Commercial team. This full-time role offers the chance to lead the management of digital supplier agreements and play a key part in ensuring strategic technology contracts achieve strong commercial outcomes, value for money, and efficient supplier performance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the lifecycle management of multiple digital supplier contracts.
• Support the administration of critical strategic contracts tied to the Digital portfolio.
• Collaborate closely with business owners, project teams, procurement personnel, and suppliers to ensure contractual objectives are met.
• Manage commercial negotiations, risk mitigation, and supplier performance.
• Engage with stakeholders across Digital and other business teams.
• Provide governance reporting and commercial advisory services.
• Contribute to the development of future sourcing strategies and the management of technology suppliers supporting NZTA's essential services.

Your Profile

• Possess at least 5 years’ experience in contract management, supplier management, procurement, or commercial roles.
• Experience dealing with contracts related to technology, software, telecommunications, infrastructure, or managed services.
• Familiarity with public sector procurement, including Government Procurement Rules and commercial practices.
• Strong commercial insight coupled with expert negotiation skills.
• Excellent communication skills with an ability to influence senior stakeholders and suppliers effectively.
• Proficient analytical abilities for risk and issue resolution.
• A collaborative, practical approach and confidence to constructively challenge for desired outcomes.
• Ability to simplify complex commercial issues into actionable business advice.
• Deep understanding of technology services, software, managed services, or digital delivery environments.
• Experience in use of SAP Ariba procurement software.

About NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

Our mission is to deliver transport networks that benefit people and places across New Zealand. Through Te Aukaha - Digital, we provide modern and effective digital, information, and technology services supporting our partners and customers, with a focus on collaboration and innovation for better outcomes.

What We Provide

• Flexible work arrangements for a balanced lifestyle.
• Five weeks of annual leave per year.
• Life, Income Protection, and Critical Illness insurance for permanent employees.
• A supportive environment encouraging career growth and capability development.
• An opportunity to engage in meaningful work impacting New Zealanders positively.

Additional Information

Applicants must have the legal right to work and live in New Zealand. Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer fostering diversity and inclusion. Please advise if you require support or accommodations during recruitment. Note that recruitment may begin shortlisting applications early, so early application submission is recommended.

Application deadline: 26 July 2026