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Contract Relationship Manager

25 Sept 2025

Tau ake rā te moana nei, e papaki kau ana ki te ākau tangata, kakenga waka ka mauru te tohu ki te arearenga o Mauao, he pou herenga mōu, he pou hononga mōu, kia herea ki te tika, kia herea ki te pono. Kia mau, kia ita, kia ū – haumi e, hui e, tāiki e!

 

Te Tūranga | About the role

We’re looking for an experienced Contract Relationship Manager to manage results and lead the team supporting our 3 Waters Operations and Maintenance Contract with Downer New Zealand Limited. You’ll have two bosses, as Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council, are in a collaboration for this contract. You will drive key results for these councils ensuring our contractor delivers excellent services and value for money for our communities.

What you’ll do

· Lead an experienced team that supports the operations of both councils, setting clear goals and helping your people succeed.

· Manage the contract - measure performance, solve problems, and make sure we’re getting the best results for our communities.

· Continue to foster strong relationships with Downer NZ Ltd, Watercare Services Ltd, and the three waters teams across both councils.

· Drive change - guide your team and partners through sector reforms and be instrumental in establishing new ways of working.

· Share information - make sure everyone has the contract details they need to manage specialist services and budgets.

· Keep everyone informed with clear updates and regular communication.

 

Ngā Pukenga | What you’ll need to succeed

To thrive in this role, you’ll bring

· A tertiary qualification in management or business administration.

· At least 10 years’ experience in local government, with a strong background in contract management (NZS 3917).

· Understanding of the 3 Waters sector and current reforms.

· Experience leading teams through change and working with multiple partners.

· Strong skills in relationship management, business systems, and databases.

· Great communication and facilitation skills.

· Experience managing large budgets.

 

Tō Tātou Kaunihera | About Tauranga City Council

Tauranga City Council is one of Tauranga’s largest employers, and we are always looking to attract great talent to join our driven, passionate, and community-focused team.

We always strive to ensure that you feel valued and supported in the workplace.

To highlight that our people are our greatest asset, we offer a wide range of benefits that include 5 weeks annual leave, flexible hours and work from home options, as well as career development opportunities.

You can find out more about working at Tauranga City Council here.

 

Te Tukanga | How to apply

If you want to be part of an energetic, fun, and supportive team, then we'd love to hear from you. For more information, please contact Cathy Davidson at cathy.davidson@tauranga.govt.nz  

Please note we will not be accepting applications via email. If you wish to apply, please click ‘Apply’ at the bottom of this page and follow the link.

 

Applications will close Monday 6th October

 

We’re committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those living with disabilities.
If you need any support or adjustments to take part in our recruitment process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at recruitment@tauranga.govt.nz

  • You must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.
  • Tauranga City Council does not accept unsolicited contact or applications from recruitment agencies. We will not pay fees or commissions related to unsolicited contact.

 

Job Description: Contract Relationship Manager

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