Procurement and Commercial Practice Lead

**Mo te tunga | About the role**

The Procurement and Commercial Practice Lead is a key senior procurement 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 delivers procurement and commercial support and advice to the Defence Logistics Command directorate, working across all three services: Air, Land and Maritime and Equipment Management, Supply Chain and Shared Services. One week you could be leading sourcing for dive gear or ammunition, the next you could be reviewing a support contract for new aircraft or leading strategy development for sustainment of a new capability platform for aircraft.

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 the role is based at Defence House in Wellington, with travel to NZDF Camps and Bases as required.

**Nga pukenga me nga 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 resilient, 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 leadership and team management experience.
- Demonstrable strengths and experience with strategic procurement.
- Experience leading and/or 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.

**Nou 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 pehea te tuku tono | How to Apply**

Applications close on **Thursday 12 June 2025**.

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

**Please Note**:

- 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.

**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 citiz