Senior Commercial Adviser - Infrastructure

Senior Commercial Adviser – Infrastructure

Work with purpose, complexity and variety

• Make a real difference to communities
• Take on exciting global challenges - shape supplier ecosystems in remote markets while navigating the dynamic impacts of geopolitical shifts
• No two projects are the same – variety is guaranteed
• Projects all around the world – from cosmopolitan cities to some of the most challenging locations in the world
• Join a collaborative, mission-driven team with excellent team culture

This isn’t your average procurement job. It’s fast-paced, mission-driven, and globally connected. You’ll influence real-world outcomes and help partner countries deliver critical services and enhance our global physical footprint. The Ministry is increasing focus on critical infrastructure projects, and we’re trusted to deliver strategic commercial advice and procurement support.

About the role - Kōrero mō te tūranga

As a Senior Commercial Adviser, you’ll Join the Ministry’s Commercial Division – a collaborative, high-performing team.  You will take the lead on complex, high-impact infrastructure, and other projects. You’ll work across diverse geographies with a focus on the Pacific, delivering smart commercial solutions that support sustainable development and long-term value.

You’ll be advising on major investments like:

• buildings of national significance, airports, ports, roads, hospitals, schools,
• high security facilities including embassies and  official residences,
• renewable energy infrastructure, and
• complex technical advisory facilities.

What you’ll do:

• Provide trusted commercial and procurement advice on high-value, high-risk infrastructure and other initiatives
• Develop tailored commercial strategies that align with the Ministry’s strategic goals
• Solve complex commercial challenges in dynamic environments
• Mentor and coach others, building capability across the team
• Work with our international partners and stakeholders
• Work at the intersection of government, global development, NGOs and the private sector

For more detail you can view a copy of the position description here.

The Ministry will consider all applications and the final renumeration offer will be determined by the successful applicant’s capability and experience.

Who are we looking for? - Mā‎ wai te mahi nei?

We're looking for someone with the rare combination of expertise and adaptability with ability to develop effective solutions to unique complex challenges. You’ll thrive here if you bring:

• Deep infrastructure procurement and/or commercial advisory experience, with a minimum of two-year experience at Senior Adviser or higher level
• Strategic thinking, sharp analysis, and problem-solving confidence
• Excellent relationship-building and influencing skills
• Clear, compelling communication skills
• Understanding of The Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti, Te Reo Māori and Māori customs and protocols would be beneficial.

Why MFAT? - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Aorere

We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development, and flexible work options consistent with guidance from the Public Service Commission.  We offer competitive salary (aligned with your skills and experience). Check out our benefits page to find out more about why we love working here.

MFAT is Rainbow Tick accredited. We value diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and a sense of belonging.  We welcome applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds. 

About us - Mō mātou

Our people represent New Zealand on and offshore, and in doing so make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous.  By building connections with and influencing other countries and international institutions, we advance New Zealand’s interests and pursue New Zealand's values.  We provide advice to the Government on the implications for New Zealand of what is happening in the world. 

To apply/interested? - Me pēhea te tuku tono

Apply today with your CV and cover letter.

For a confidential discussion please contact anil.muringathery@mfat.govt.nz  

To be considered for this position at Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade you must be a NZ citizen, or Permanent Resident. 

You must be able to obtain and maintain a Confidential security clearance. Ordinarily, to obtain this level of clearance candidates must have sufficient checkable background in countries where meaningful and reliable checks can be undertaken. Where requisite checks are unable to be made, the candidate application may not be able to be progressed.

Please Let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Applications close at 6pm on Sunday 31st August 2025.

Please note: This is not a Foreign Policy/diplomatic role.  This is a ‘Corporate’ role (known here as a specialist role based in central Wellington, NZ.  

While it is not usual for specialist staff to be ‘posted’ outside of NZ, from time to time a specialist role overseas becomes available at one of our embassies, high commissions, missions or consulates. To be considered for one of these positions you would need to apply and be considered via a competitive recruitment process.

If you do have an interest in an MFAT foreign policy/diplomatic career, you would be welcome to apply for this either via our graduate recruitment or mid-level foreign policy recruitment campaigns.