Project Manager – HVDC Upgrade Programme

About the role

Transpower is recruiting a Project Manager to lead substantial control system work packages for its HVDC Link Upgrade Programme, a multi-year system upgrade of national significance. The programme upgrades the submarine power cables and control systems of the HVDC link that connects the North and South Island transmission grids, aiming to deliver long-term reliability and energy market resilience by 2032. The role reports to the HVDC Programme Manager.

Key responsibilities

• Lead control system work packages from definition through development, delivery, commissioning and handover.
• Collaborate with internal specialists, external consultants, service providers and major international suppliers.
• Keep interconnected work packages aligned, safe, commercially sound and on track.
• Navigate custom commercial arrangements while working within established governance frameworks, surfacing issues early and supporting decisions.
• Champion robust safety and quality expectations across service providers.

Required profile

• Proven experience delivering large projects with multiple workstreams, specialist suppliers and significant technical, commercial and operational dependencies, with accountability for scope, schedule, budget, risk, quality, governance and delivery.
• Experience managing specialist suppliers, contractors or technology partners within complex contractual arrangements.
• Able to work with and question technical experts, identify emerging delivery risks and communicate clearly to influence senior stakeholders, delivery partners and contractors.
• Relevant tertiary qualification and a project management qualification such as PMP or PRINCE2, with disciplined project controls, reporting tools and financial management systems.
• Ideally has led projects in infrastructure, utilities, telecommunications, industrial delivery, technology or an adjacent sector; IT Project Managers with similar integrated projects are also welcome.
• Existing eligibility to work in New Zealand is essential.

What we offer

• Flexibility for work and personal commitments, including adaptable daily start and finish times.
• Wellbeing support and a range of employee health and wellness benefits.
• Work in the office or on site a minimum of three days each week.

The application closes on Wednesday 11 November, with appointments expected before Christmas and a start date in 2027.