Head of Commercial Procurement

About the Opportunity
Waikato District Council is seeking an exceptional commercial leader to step into a newly established and highly influential role — Head of Commercial Partnering.
This is a rare opportunity to shape and lead a unified Commercial Partnering function from the ground up, integrating procurement, contract management, and commissioning practices across Council. You'll establish a Centre of Excellence that sets the standard for strategic procurement, drives consistency, and maximises value from supplier and commercial partner relationships.
If you're a procurement and commercial professional ready to make a real impact in the public sector, this is the role for you.
What You'll Do
Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer and leading a team of seven, you will:

• Lead the development and implementation of procurement and commercial strategies aligned to Council's organisational priorities
• Establish and embed a Commercial Centre of Excellence, standardising tools, templates, processes, and governance frameworks
• Partner with General Managers and business units to embed commercial thinking across the organisation
• Lead strategic sourcing, procurement, and commissioning of shared services
• Negotiate complex contracts and supplier arrangements, and manage performance with rigour
• Provide expert advice across the full procurement and contract lifecycle
• Drive measurable efficiencies, savings, and improved service outcomes
• Deliver regular reporting on procurement, contracts, and risk metrics
• Build and develop a high-performing, accountable team

About You
You will bring:

• A relevant tertiary qualification in business, procurement, contract management, or a related field — or equivalent industry experience
• Extensive experience in procurement, contract management, and commercial leadership
• Proven capability in strategic sourcing and complex contract negotiation
• Strong commercial acumen and analytical thinking
• Leadership experience managing teams and influencing senior stakeholders
• Sound knowledge of procurement best practice and risk management frameworks
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills

An understanding of, and commitment to, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the ability to work effectively with iwi and Māori communities will also be highly valued.
Why Join Waikato District Council?
Waikato District Council serves a vibrant and growing region. This is your chance to leave a lasting legacy by building a best-in-class commercial function that supports better outcomes for the community. You'll have the mandate, the resources, and the executive backing to do it right.
How to Apply
To find out more about this opportunity, contact Sandy Murray at Momentum Consulting Group — specialists in connecting great people with great organisations.