Contracts & Vendors Relations Managerat NZ Defence Force -
Mō te tūnga | About the roleJoin NZDF and be part of an environment where the work behind the scenes plays a key role in supporting the people who serve. This role sits within the New Zealand Defence College and plays a critical role in how NZDF partners with external training and education providers.You'll manage a portfolio of provider contracts, ensuring services are delivered effectively and continue to meet the needs of NZDF personnel.
A key focus of the role is maintaining strong provider relationships, monitoring performance, and ensuring contractual outcomesThis is a senior, hands- on role where you'll balance commercial oversight, relationship management, and continuous improvement.
It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and ExperienceThis is a great opportunity for someone with experience in vendor management, procurement, or commercial advisory who's looking to step into a broader, more strategic role.Ideally, you'll bring a genuine interest in (or experience with) procurement in the tertiary education or training sector, and an understanding of how external providers deliver learning outcomes
- or a strong curiosity to learn in this space.You'll be confident building relationships, comfortable working in a complex environment, and able to balance detail with the bigger picture.You will also bring:Experience in vendor or contract management, procurement, or supplier relationship rolesStrong communication skills, with the ability to influence and provide advice to a range of stakeholders, including senior leadersSound judgement and the ability to navigate ambiguity and competing prioritiesStrong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple workstreamsAn analytical mindset, with the ability to interpret information and provide meaningful insightsA collaborative approach and willingness to support others across the teamConfidence to challenge constructively and contribute to better outcomesExperience in the public sector, or familiarity with government procurement processes, would also be beneficial.Nōu te rourou | What's in it for youYour skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience.
- 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 pēhea te tuku tono | How to ApplyApplications close on Tuesday 9 June 2026.Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website.Please Note:All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website.
Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.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.NZDF Employees/Members- please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.NZDF Contractors
- please apply via the Defence Careers website.NZDF Reserves
- please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.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:Low Level Security ClearanceYou 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 citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last five (5) years.You must have a five (5) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted.
We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.