Project Overview

This role supports one of New Zealand’s most significant and technically complex vertical infrastructure developments. The project is a large-scale, secure operational facility being delivered through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) and joint venture model, bringing together some of the country’s most experienced construction, engineering and service delivery organisations.

Designed to operate around the clock once complete, the facility incorporates high-security environments, complex building systems, and long-term asset management requirements. The project environment is fast-paced, highly collaborative and governance-led, with strong interface management across public and private sector stakeholders.

About the Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Commercial Manager to play a critical leadership role on a nationally significant infrastructure project delivered via a Public Private Partnership (PPP). This complex, high-security facility requires strong commercial governance, disciplined contract management, and robust financial oversight to ensure successful project delivery. You will be part of a high-performing team working within a structured, best-practice environment alongside industry leaders.

Commercial Manager

Reporting to the Project Director, the Commercial Manager will lead all commercial, contractual, and financial aspects of the project lifecycle. This role is responsible for driving commercial strategy, managing risk, ensuring contractual compliance, and optimising financial performance across the project.

Key Responsibilities

• • Develop and implement the project commercial strategy aligned with project objectives
  • Lead contract administration, negotiation, and dispute resolution
  • Manage variations, claims, and extensions of time (EOTs)
  • Ensure compliance with contractual frameworks and government procurement rules
  • Drive commercial outcomes across cost, revenue, and margin performance
  • Oversee financial forecasting, cost control, and reporting
  • Identify, assess, and mitigate commercial and contractual risks
  • Maintain and lead the project risk register and governance processes
  • Oversee procurement strategies and subcontractor engagement
  • Lead and develop the commercial team
  • Provide commercial advice to senior stakeholders

About You

• • Extensive experience in commercial management within large-scale infrastructure projects.
  • Strong expertise in contract negotiation, claims management, and dispute resolution.
  • Deep understanding of complex contractual frameworks.
  • Proven leadership capability and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Experience in PPP or regulated environments will be highly regarded.

Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

• • Tertiary qualification in Law, Commerce, Quantity Surveying, or related discipline.
  • Minimum 12+ years’ experience in commercial management.
  • Strong knowledge of contract law and procurement frameworks.
  • Professional membership desirable.
  • Experience in major infrastructure, public sector or secure facilities highly advantageous.

What We Offer

This role offers a genuinely unique opportunity to work within a joint‑venture environment, combining the strength and capability of a highly respected New Zealand constructor with the scale, systems, and global experience of a leading international infrastructure organisation.

We offer:

• • The opportunity to be embedded in a large‑scale, high‑profile project from early stages through delivery
  • Exposure to both local best practice and world‑class global systems and processes, providing invaluable professional development
  • A collaborative, inclusive project team environment that values expertise, partnership, and shared success
  • Strong leadership, structure, and support within a well‑resourced organisation
  • Competitive remuneration aligned to skills and experience