Director of Retrofit Programme

About the role

The Director – Retrofit will lead a national retrofit directorate within Kāinga Ora, overseeing a major programme to renew and improve existing public housing across Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Reporting to the General Manager, Housing Delivery, the role is responsible for delivering consistent, sustainable, and accountable outcomes that extend the life of homes while balancing quality, cost and long‑term value.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the national retrofit programme, setting clear priorities and embedding consistent delivery practices.
• Accountability for programme performance, risk, governance, budget and stakeholder relationships.
• Oversee a multi‑city team and manage a significant CAPEX/OPEX portfolio.
• Drive planning, reporting and continuous improvement to ensure on‑time, on‑budget delivery to the required standards.
• Shape the retrofit directorate, translating strategy into practical delivery and fostering a culture of lean and continuous improvement.

Required profile

• Seasoned senior leader with experience in property, housing, construction, infrastructure or large‑scale asset renewal.
• Strong commercial judgement and proven ability to manage large budgets and supplier relationships.
• Demonstrated capability to lead complex delivery programmes and influence senior stakeholders in a regulated public‑sector environment.
• Experience working with iwi, Māori organisations and other partnership groups is desirable.

Required skills

• Commercial and financial acumen for managing CAPEX/OPEX portfolios.
• Lean or continuous‑improvement methodologies.
• Strategic planning and risk management.