Contract Manager | Auckland And Wellington

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

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

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 | Mo te tungaAs 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 responsibilitiesOversee development, execution, monitoring, and compliance of assigned contractsManage contract lifecycle, including renewals, variations and terminationsDrive high performance and value through robust contract managementBuild and manage effective relationships with providers and stakeholdersAct as a point of escalation to resolve contract-related issues, disputes, or misunderstandingsMonitor financial expenditure and ensure budgets are adhered toConduct regular contract and provider performance reviews, implementing improvementsIdentify, investigate, and resolve contract or provider issues, escalating as needed

QualificationsProven experience in procurement, commercial, or contract managementA demonstrated understanding of contract management principles and commissioningProficiency with contract management systems and standard office softwareExcellent relationship and engagement skills with providers and stakeholdersHighly developed communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution abilitiesAnalytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail in documentation and reportingAbility to manage multiple contracts and priorities while meeting deadlines

Salary and locationSalary range | Utu-a-tau : $90,743 - $109,980.

This role can be based in Auckland or Wellington.

About MSDThe 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, whanau 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 pehea te tuku tonoTo 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

• MSD Employees – please apply through your myHR portal at work.

This will ensure that your myHR employee profile is visible as internal candidate.

Joining MSD means being part of a whanau 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.

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.

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