Manager Procurement

Suncorp New Zealand is seeking an experienced Procurement Manager to lead a high-performing team responsible for delivering strategic category management across Suncorp NZ, our partners, and joint ventures. This role plays a critical part in creating value for our customers by bringing the best of the supply market to Suncorp through strategic procurement, commercial leadership, and strong supplier relationships.

We are looking for someone who not only brings strong technical expertise but also the soft skills required to navigate an evolving corporate environment. This includes the ability to lead and support change management initiatives, build strong internal relationships, and communicate effectively across a wide range of stakeholders.

The role requires someone who can think innovatively and leverage AI and emerging technologies to meet business requirements and improve how we operate. You will need to operate confidently within our Trans-Tasman partnership with Australia, working collaboratively while understanding and aligning with our organisational risk appetite.

About the Role

You will lead the design and execution of procurement strategies that maximise value, reduce cost, and build competitive advantage. This includes oversight of category management activities, sourcing strategies, supplier performance, and governance across a wide range of spend categories.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute procurement strategies for defined categories in partnership with the Executive Manager, Financial Management.
• Lead category management planning, sourcing initiatives, contract execution, and ongoing vendor governance.
• Deliver best-in-class procurement outcomes by driving process improvement and organisational change.
• Manage complex contract negotiations, SLAs, extensions, variations, and performance frameworks.
• Build trusted relationships with internal teams, suppliers, and Group Procurement.
• Foster a high-engagement team culture and provide mentoring and coaching to team members.

About You

• Minimum 10 years' experience in strategic procurement, including category management.
• Proven leadership capability and ability to influence across all organisational levels.
• Experience in centralised procurement environments handling complex negotiations.
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills.
• Expertise in vendor management, strategic sourcing, and value chain optimisation.
• Excellent interpersonal, consulting, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong risk and compliance awareness with ability to provide sound mitigation advice.
• Outstanding communication skills—verbal and written.

What You will get in return

• Competitive salary and discretionary annual bonus
• Flexible leave of up to 4 days per year in addition to annual leave
• Free life, salary continuance and trauma insurance cover
• Discounts on Vero insurance and various retailers
• $250 annually towards wellness activities
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities
• Positive, inclusive team environment where we welcome individuality and celebrate diversity
• Flexible work arrangements embracing a healthy work/life balance

We're proud to be a part of the Suncorp Group family alongside some of Australia and New Zealand's most trusted names in insurance – working together to bring about faster, simpler and better outcomes for our customers and corporate partners. Our commitment to strong, supportive partnerships extends to our people as well, and the opportunities and support we provide to help you thrive in your career with us. And with a shared customer-obsession and the digital capabilities to make a genuine difference, you'll see the meaningful impact you can make for our customers and communities, while watching your own career shine too.

At Suncorp we believe we are our best when our workforce is as diverse, talented and passionate as the communities in which we live and operate, and where our people feel included, valued and connected. We are passionate about inspiring our people by creating a diverse, accessible, and inclusive culture, offering flexible work, career development and internal mobility, and building connected relationships amongst our team members and with our customers.

If you require more information or any support and adjustments to participate equitably in our recruitment process or in the workplace, we encourage you to contact for a confidential conversation.

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact and lead procurement excellence at Suncorp New Zealand, apply now.