Procurement and Commercial Practice Lead

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

The Procurement and Commercial Practice Lead is a key senior practitioner and leadership role within the Defence Commercial Services (DCS) Team.

Reporting to the Commercial Portfolio Manager, Defence Logistics Command, you will be responsible for the management and delivery of the end to end procurement lifecycle with a strategic focus through the delivery of complex and exciting procurement projects, across the Logistics and Capability portfolio streams, while fostering the development, growth and expertise of your team.

You'll play a key role in contributing to the NZDF's Mission, aligned to strategic outcomes. What we do matters and delivers real value. The team you'll lead provides procurement and commercial support and advice to the Capability and Logistics directorates, working across all three services: Air, Land and Maritime. One week you could be leading sourcing for dive gear, the next you could be reviewing a support contract for new aircraft or engaging with overseas suppliers.

This is a permanent role and is based within the Wellington region with flexible working options available. Your team is split between Wellington and Trentham, and there are options to work from Defence House in Wellington, with travel to NZDF Camps and Bases as required.

Applications will be reviewed upon receipt. It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We're looking for a team player with demonstrated experience in people and team management. You're a seasoned procurement professional with the relevant qualifications and you have a proven track record in engaging successfully with customers, key stakeholders and senior leaders. 

You will be passionate about what you do and enjoy the challenge of delivering customer-focused solutions. Your communication skills include being able to engage with a wide range of stakeholders with ease, with written work to a high standard. You'll be proactive, thoughtful and organised. 

You'll have a strong understanding of the end to end procurement lifecycle process, the Government Procurement Rules and best practice procurement and commercial behaviour.

Ideally, you'll have:

• Credible and influential team management and leadership experience.
• Demonstrable strengths and experience with strategic procurement.
• Experience managing complex tender processes with high levels of risk and/or public profile.
• A strong focus on customer and service delivery.
• Strong communication skills - able to explain ideas simply and clearly, listen carefully to others, and proactively improve team communication.
• The ability to influence and negotiate, including pushing back, offering alternatives and information around the ‘why'.

A Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS) qualification would be an advantage, but is not essential. A class 1 full driver's licence is required.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning – safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection.  Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment.  Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Wednesday 27 November 2024.

Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here's what you need to know:

Higher Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last ten (10) years.
• You must have a ten (10) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.