Contract Manager | Wellington | Permanent

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert: Manage contracts and provider relationships for DSS Drive high-quality service delivery and robust contract management Join a collaborative, purpose-led public sector team Join our Disability Support Services team to manage provider relationships, drive high performance, and ensure the effective use of public funds. The Disability Support Services (DSS) Group is responsible for commissioning, funding, and stewarding high-quality services that support disabled people, their families, and whānau. We’re building leadership and management capacity across our teams to deliver both change and business-as-usual effectively. We work closely with providers, stakeholders, and communities to ensure services are fair, consistent, transparent and sustainable. With a strong focus on performance monitoring, data, and insights, we’re committed to continuous improvement and evidence-based decision-making. It’s an exciting time to join DSS as we strengthen our systems and expand our capabilities. We’re looking for passionate people to help us achieve our goals and make a meaningful impact. About the role | Mō te tūuānga As Contract Manager, you’ll oversee assigned contracts and provider relationships to ensure effective commissioning and delivery of outcomes for disabled people. You’ll manage the full contract lifecycle, monitor provider performance, address risks and issues, and act as a key liaison between DSS and third-party providers. Your work will ensure all commissioning activities are transparent, well-documented, and aligned with organisational policies and requirements. This role can be based in either our Wellington office and is a permanent full-time role. Key responsibilities include: Oversee development, execution, monitoring, and compliance of assigned contracts Manage contract lifecycle, including renewals, variations and terminations Drive high performance and value through robust contract management Build and manage effective relationships with providers and stakeholders Act as a point of escalation to resolve contract-related issues, disputes, or misunderstandings Monitor financial expenditure and ensure budgets are adhered to Conduct regular contract and provider performance reviews, implementing improvements Identify, investigate, and resolve contract or provider issues, escalating as needed We value diversity and welcome applications from disabled people and those who have lived experience with whĊvanau, or the disability community. Please contact us if there is any support that we can provide to ensure the recruitment process is accessible to you. Proven experience in procurement, commercial, or contract management A demonstrated understanding of contract management principles and commissioning Proficiency with contract management systems and standard office software Demonstrate flexibility and adapts confidently to changing priorities, emerging issues, and shifting organisational needs. Excellent relationship and engagement skills with providers and stakeholders Highly developed communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution abilities Analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail in documentation and reporting Ability to manage a large volume of contracts and competing priorities while meeting deadlines Salary | Utu-ā-tau: $90,743.00 - $109,980.00 The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) is a people-centred organisation. We’re in communities across the motu, working with partners to help New Zealanders be safe, strong and independent. We provide social policy advice to government, and assistance including income, employment and housing support to people of all ages, families, whĊvanau and communities. As a Te Tiriti o Waitangi partner, we are committed to supporting and enabling Māori, whĊvanau, hapūh, Iwi and communities to realise their own potential and aspirations. Our people are as diverse as the communities we serve. We care about the wellbeing and success of our people and provide a supportive and inclusive working environment where people can thrive and be who they are. Joining MSD means being part of a whĊvanau that celebrates the diversity each individual represents. We show manaaki, we care about the wellbeing and success of people and want everyone to thrive and be who they are in a supportive and inclusive working environment. We work together to make a difference for communities while doing the right thing with integrity. You can find out more about our values here. #J-18808-Ljbffr