Strategic Procurement Lead

Strategic Procurement Lead – NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi) 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. The 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. Key Responsibilities Drive strategic sourcing and commercial outcomes that matter. Partner with senior leaders to deliver complex procurement programmes. Provide expert procurement leadership from category strategy through to sourcing, contract establishment and supplier relationship management. Embed procurement excellence, lift commercial capability and ensure strategic sourcing decisions deliver measurable benefits. Provide technical leadership and mentoring while contributing to procurement governance, reporting and continuous improvement initiatives. Essential Qualifications 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 (preferred). Strong analytical, problem-solving, performance management and reporting capability. Collaborative and pragmatic approach, with tertiary qualification in a related discipline or equivalent experience. CIPS or related professional membership preferred. 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. What We Offer Flexible working arrangements. Commitment to professional development and growth. Inclusive and supportive team culture. Opportunity to work on nationally significant infrastructure programmes. Competitive salary and benefits package. Equal Opportunity Statement 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. Applications close: 4 August 2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr