Strategic Procurement Lead

• Drive strategic sourcing and commercial outcomes that matter

• Partner with senior leaders to deliver complex procurement programmes

• Technical leadership opportunity based in Wellington or Auckland

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is seeking an experienced and commercially astute Strategic Procurement Lead to lead procurement strategy across key business portfolios.

This role is responsible for partnering with senior business leaders to develop and deliver complex procurement programmes that drive innovation, value, sustainability and performance. As a trusted advisor, you will provide expert procurement leadership from category strategy through to sourcing, contract establishment and supplier relationship management.

You will play a key role in embedding procurement excellence, lifting commercial capability and ensuring strategic sourcing decisions deliver measurable benefits. The role also provides technical leadership and mentoring while contributing to procurement governance, reporting and continuous improvement initiatives.

Ko koe tēnei | About you

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• Extensive experience leading strategic procurement and sourcing programmes in project or service delivery environments.

• Strong commercial acumen, negotiation skills and experience applying complex sourcing processes to high-value, high-risk procurements.

• Experience developing and implementing category strategies that deliver measurable procurement outcomes.

• Ability to influence senior leaders, manage complex stakeholder environments and build trusted partnerships.

• Knowledge of public sector procurement frameworks, including government procurement policies, rules and processes, is preferred.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, performance management and reporting capability.

• A collaborative and pragmatic approach, with tertiary qualification in a related discipline or equivalent experience; CIPS or related professional membership is preferred.

You'll demonstrate a willingness to understand and engage with Te Ao Māori, support NZTA's commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and contribute to an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives strengthen decision-making. 

Ko wai mātou | About us

At NZTA Waka Kotahi, we create transport networks that deliver for people, places and New Zealand. Te Ama – Commercial and Corporate provides the services that enable NZTA to run efficiently and effectively, including business and investment planning, financial and investment management, assurance, legal, governance, procurement, risk and corporate services.

You’ll be part of a high-performing procurement team that is helping shape the future of transport in New Zealand. This role provides the opportunity to influence significant commercial decisions, lead complex procurement initiatives and make a meaningful contribution to the delivery of transport outcomes for New Zealanders.

We also offer: 

• Flexible working arrangements 

• A commitment to professional development and growth 

• An inclusive and supportive team culture 

• The opportunity to work on nationally significant infrastructure programmes 

• Competitive salary and benefits package. 

If you want to join an organisation with a strong transparent culture, where wellbeing is a priority and where your talent and skills are valued, then apply with your CV.

Me pēhea te tuku tono – How to apply:

You will find a copy of the Position Description here.

Please click ‘Apply for this Job’ to upload your CV and cover letter.

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

4 August 2026

For further information, email: [email protected]

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.