Contract Lead

Whakatakoto te tūāpapa | Laying the foundation

At Contact Energy, we’re proud to be leading the charge toward a low-carbon Aotearoa. Our Major Projects team is central to this kaupapa, delivering large-scale renewable energy developments that include geothermal, solar, wind, and battery energy storage systems (BESS). These projects are complex, high-impact, and require a strong foundation of planning, collaboration, and execution.

Procurement plays a critical role in this journey. Our procurement function is deeply embedded in the project lifecycle from early-stage planning through to commissioning. The team is responsible for sourcing and securing the materials, services, and equipment that bring our renewable ambitions to life. Working alongside engineers, project managers, and logistics experts, procurement ensures that our projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. It’s a space where commercial acumen meets purpose-driven mahi, and where every decision contributes to a more sustainable future for Aotearoa

Te āhua o te tūranga I The nature of the role

As Contract Lead, you’ll play a pivotal role in delivering Contact Energy’s ambitious investment programme. You’ll be part of a passionate team responsible for the development and execution of our major renewable projects. Reporting to the Head of Contracts and Procurement, you’ll work closely with leaders across the business to ensure our projects are delivered to world-class standards. From development through to commissioning, your mahi will help shape the future of energy in Aotearoa.

You’ll lead a team of experienced contract managers, guiding them through all phases of project delivery. Your focus will be on optimising processes, ensuring high-quality outcomes, and providing strong commercial guidance. Whether it’s managing supplier relationships, overseeing contract lifecycles, or resolving disputes, your expertise will be key to our success. This is a role for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and is ready to make a real impact.

Ko wai koe | About you

We’re looking for someone who brings a wealth of experience in contract management, ideally with 10–15 years working on large capital projects. You’ll have a solid background in capital procurement and a knack for leading teams through complex project lifecycles. A degree in business, economics, finance, or logistics is essential, and a master’s degree would be a bonus. If you’ve worked in the energy sector or have project management or engineering experience, that’s a definite plus.

But more than just qualifications, we’re after someone with superb leadership and communication skills, someone who can collaborate, negotiate, and think strategically. You’ll be organised, analytical, and ready to travel to build strong stakeholder relationships. If you’re passionate about renewable energy and want to be part of a team that’s making a difference, we’d love to hear from you. .

Ngā painga | The perks of being a Contact kaimahi

This is a 2 year fixed term contract

At Contact, being a fixed-term kaimahi (employee) comes with some sweet perks! You’ll get a boost to your KiwiSaver, access to Southern Cross health insurance, and a yearly “Good to be Home” payment to help with your home setup. There’s also free flu shots, skin checks, and wellbeing support through Clearhead. Plus, discounts on Contact energy and broadband products, learning through Contact University, and a bunch of other corporate deals. 
 

Applications close 5pm Friday the 14th of November

Here at Contact Energy (Te Mata Hiko), we know our strength lies in developing a sense of belonging - one that helps us attract and retain people with a broad range of perspectives and experiences.

We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their whole selves to work. Our goal is to reflect the diversity of our customers and communities to help build a better Aotearoa New Zealand.

We have a rich community of talented people that we support to thrive at Contact.

Our inclusive hiring process is designed to embrace the diversity of Aotearoa New Zealand, ensuring a wide range of perspectives are included in our decision-making and helping reduce bias along the way.

The wellbeing of our kaimahi is super important to us.

We use employee insights to offer a range of initiatives and resources to support physical, mental, financial and emotional wellbeing – including flexible working arrangements, employee network groups and a market-leading parental leave policy.

At Te Mata Hiko, we want everyone to thrive. We welcome applicants far and wide - of every age, stage, background, and pride. Join us and be part of a team that values your passion and attitude just as much as your experience and skills.

Please note, only candidates with the right to live and work in New Zealand will be considered for this role.

Research shows that while men apply to jobs where they meet 60% of the criteria, women and those in underrepresented groups tend to only apply if they tick every box. We're not about box ticking, so if you think you have what it takes but don't meet everything stated above, please still get in touch. We'd love to kōrero.

Te Mata Hiko (Contact Energy) does not accept any CVs received from recruitment agencies where a formal engagement has not been confirmed and agreed to with our Talent team. In the event that unsolicited CVs are submitted by recruitment agencies, Te Mata Hiko (Contact Energy) reserves the right to contact these candidates directly and consider them for current/future vacancies without any financial obligation to the recruitment agency in question. This will also apply to any CVs sent directly to line managers.