Commercial Manager

About the role

This newly created position leads the commercial strategy and oversight of complex, high‑risk contracts for Te Uru Rākau, the New Zealand Forest Service, based in Wellington. You will shape supplier partnerships, drive value, and ensure commercial practices are fit for purpose across the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Lead commercial oversight of high‑value, complex contracts, including IT and research partnerships.
• Drive negotiations for contracts and variations to achieve strong commercial outcomes.
• Provide expert advice on contract structures, pricing models, and performance frameworks.
• Advise senior leaders on contract performance, risk, and supplier strategy.
• Strengthen assurance, reporting, and portfolio‑level visibility across contracts.
• Build capability by coaching staff and embedding commercial best practice.

Required profile

• Significant experience leading complex, high‑value contract and supplier portfolios in a large or complex environment.
• Proven ability to lead negotiations and drive strong supplier performance and value.
• Strong relationship‑management skills with confidence to influence and challenge constructively.
• Well‑developed commercial judgement, financial acumen, and attention to detail.
• Passion for capability building, including coaching and embedding best practice.
• Credibility to advise senior leaders while balancing competing priorities.

Required skills

What we offer

• Broad development and learning opportunities.
• Opportunity to make a real impact on New Zealand’s forest management.
• Competitive salary band and benefits.