Principal Adviser – Procurement

Position Title:  Principal Adviser – Procurement  

Team and Group:  Legal & Procurement, Corporate Services

Position Type:  Permanent, Full Time 

Location:  Wellington CBD office

Salary: $137,529, $150,000 + KiwiSaver

About the opportunity | Ngā whakamārama mō te tūnga

We’re looking for a Principal Adviser – Procurement to lead our procurement function, set the direction and drive smart and impactful purchasing across the Ministry.

Working closely with the Senior Adviser – Procurement, you’ll be the procurement expert, guiding strategy, building strong partnerships and developing productive relationships, ensuring every dollar deliver values. You’ll also work closely with the Legal and Finance teams to ensure best practice is delivered across the wider Ministry.

In this newly created role, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to demonstrate your ability to lead and manage the full procurement lifecycle within the public sector, and within an evolving environment. You’ll be hands-on with a wide variety of procurement projects, gain valuable exposure to the dynamic transport sector and have real opportunities to make a meaningful impact.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing expert advice on all aspects of procurement functions including planning, sourcing (including leading tenders), negotiations, strategy, and the implementation of tools and processes for procurement related goods and services
• Providing advice that allows the Ministry to negotiate favourable contractual terms and conditions for the Ministry
• Leading the review, development and implementation of procurement strategy, policies, practices, procedures, tools and resources
• Proactively plan for and deliver the production of the All-of-Government procurement reporting requirements, as required by the Government Procurement Rules
• Providing oversight and management of the Ministry’s total supplier and contract landscape
• Taking a lead role in building commercial and procurement knowledge and capability across the Ministry as well as coaching and mentoring the Senior Adviser – Procurement
• Taking a leadership role in cross-Ministry and cross-government procurement matters and projects and appropriately representing Ministry views
• Driving procurement best practice and creating opportunities for continuous improvement.

Te wāhi ki a koe | What you’ll bring

• Extensive knowledge and working experience of New Zealand Public Service
• Extensive experience in managing the full procurement lifecycle within the public service
• A tertiary qualification in a relevant field or comparable experience
• A continuous improvement mindset with a proven ability to enhance policies, practices and procedures so they are fit-for-purpose and add value
• Proven ability to build and maintain excellent working relationships, networks and partnerships with key stakeholders within organisations, in other government agencies and across industry.

Salary range | Whānuitanga Utu ā-Tau

The salary budget for this position is $137,52 - $150,000 per annum + KiwiSaver. The salary offered will reflect the role level as well as the skills and experience you bring.

What we offer | Te wāhi ki a mātou

You’ll be joining a small and agile agency with strong values. We maintain a flat structure and strive towards being a high-performing Ministry motivated to achieve success and develop their people.

You’ll receive a range of employee benefits including additional Ministry leave days, health and wellbeing benefits and a welcoming range of employee networks.

You’ll be part of small, approachable team that values collaboration, expertise and making a real impact.

Join us and be a part of our passionate ministry, shaping the future of transport in New Zealand.

About the Ministry of Transport | He kupu mō mātou Te Manatū Waka

The Ministry of Transport is an impartial, expert and trusted adviser to government, shaping transport for New Zealand. We work to deliver a well-functioning transport system that helps grow New Zealand’s economy and productivity. The Ministry’s values are integrity, excellence, and collaboration.

How to apply | Me pēhea te tono mai

To view the job description, or apply online, click Apply. Please include a CV and cover letter highlighting your relevant skills and experience.

You must have right to live and work in New Zealand and be based in Wellington or, be ready to relocate. Other locations will not be considered.

Applications close midnight, Sunday 9 November 2025.

For further information or to speak confidentially, please contact Senior Recruitment Adviser, Rebecca Bakker at r.bakker@transport.govt.nz.

We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds, orientations, and identities. We aim to have a Ministry that represents the wider Aotearoa that we serve. We champion diversity, inclusion and wellbeing and aim to create a workplace where everyone feels relevant, valued, supported and a sense of belonging.

For any support or accessibility needs during our recruitment process, please contact us at applications@transport.govt.nz

Please note, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies to fill this vacancy and unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.