Contract Manager Auckland and Wellington

Manage contracts and provider relationships for DSS

Drive high-quality service delivery and robust contract management

Join a collaborative, purpose-led public sector team

Join our Disability Support Services team to manage provider relationships, drive high performance, and ensure the effective use of public funds.

About our team Mō te tīma:

The Disability Support Services (DSS) Group is responsible for commissioning, funding, and stewarding high-quality services that support disabled people, their families, and whānau.

We’re building leadership and management capacity across our teams to deliver both change and business-as-usual effectively.

We work closely with providers, stakeholders, and communities to ensure services are fair, consistent, transparent and sustainable. With a strong focus on performance monitoring, data, and insights, we’re committed to continuous improvement and evidence-based decision-making.

It’s an exciting time to join DSS as we strengthen our systems and expand our capabilities.

We’re looking for passionate people to help us achieve our goals and make a meaningful impact.

About the role Mō te tūnga:

As Contract Manager, you’ll oversee assigned contracts and provider relationships to ensure effective commissioning and delivery of outcomes for disabled people.

You’ll manage the full contract lifecycle, monitor provider performance, address risks and issues, and act as a key liaison between DSS and third-party providers.

Your work will ensure all commissioning activities are transparent, well-documented, and aligned with organisational policies and requirements.

Key responsibilities include:

Oversee development, execution, monitoring, and compliance of assigned contracts

Manage contract lifecycle, including renewals, variations and terminations

Drive high performance and value through robust contract management

Build and manage effective relationships with providers and stakeholders

Act as a point of escalation to resolve contract-related issues, disputes, or misunderstandings

Monitor financial expenditure and ensure budgets are adhered to

Conduct regular contract and provider performance reviews, implementing improvements

Identify, investigate, and resolve contract or provider issues, escalating as needed

We value diversity and welcome applications from disabled people and those who have lived experience with whānau, or the disability community.

Please contact us if there is any support that we can provide to ensure the recruitment process is accessible to you.

What you bring Ōu pūmanawatanga:

Proven experience in procurement, commercial, or contract management

A demonstrated understanding of contract management principles and commissioning

Proficiency with contract management systems and standard office software

Excellent relationship and engagement skills with providers and stakeholders

Highly developed communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution abilities

Analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail in documentation and reporting

Ability to manage multiple contracts and priorities while meeting deadlines

Position Description He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga:

A copy of the position description can be found here. Contract Manager position description.

Salary range Utu-ā-tau: $90,743 - $109,980

This role can be based in Auckland or Wellington.

Applications close Ka kati ngā tono hei te: Sunday 5 October 2025.

About us Mō mātou:

The Ministry of Social Development is a people-centred organisation. We’re in communities across the motu, working with partners to help New Zealanders be safe, strong and independent.

We provide social policy and advice to government and assistance, including income, employment and housing support to people of all ages, families, whānau and communities.

Our people are as diverse as the communities we serve. We care about the wellbeing and success of our people and provide a supportive and inclusive working environment where people can thrive and be who they are.

How to apply Me pēhea te tuku tono:

To apply, click the 'Apply Now' button to upload your CV, cover letter and complete the online application form.

Note: Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key responsibilities listed in the position description.

All applications must be made online. If this is not possible or if you have any queries, please contact us at

Internal MSD Employees – please apply through your myHR portal at work. This will ensure that your myHR employee profile is visible as internal candidate.

Joining us Ko te hono mai:

Joining MSD means being part of a whānau that celebrates the diversity each individual represents.

We show manaaki, we care about the wellbeing and success of people and want everyone to thrive and be who they are in a supportive and inclusive working environment. We work together to make a difference for communities while doing the right thing with integrity.

If you have any support or accessibility requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.