Programme Manager

• Christchurch-based fixed-term role through to 30 March 2030
• Play a key role in delivering a billion-dollar prison redevelopment programme
• Influence strategic decisions and work with senior leaders across one of Corrections' largest capital investments

Mo te tunga | About the role

Ara Poutama Aotearoa is investing in the future of New Zealand's custodial network to ensure our prisons remain safe, secure, and fit for purpose. Christchurch Men's Prison has been identified as the next facility requiring significant redevelopment and will play an important role in supporting future prison capacity and operational needs across the South Island.

With procurement now complete, the Christchurch Men's Prison Redevelopment Programme is moving into its next phase. Over the coming years, the programme will deliver modern accommodation, supporting infrastructure, and operational facilities that will shape the future of the site for decades to come.

As Programme Manager, you will play a key role in turning that vision into reality.

Working alongside the Programme Director, you will help lead a large and complex redevelopment programme involving multiple phases, stakeholders, and delivery partners. No two days will look the same. One day you might be working with subject matter experts to shape future programme outcomes, the next you could be helping resolve delivery challenges, preparing advice for governance groups, or ensuring risks, budgets, and timelines remain on track.

This role is about bringing people, plans, and priorities together. You'll help create clarity across a complex programme, support informed decision-making, and ensure work progresses in a coordinated and well-managed way from design and construction through to operational readiness.

This role is based in Christchurch and will be largely site-based at Christchurch Men's Prison, working closely with operational stakeholders, programme team members, and delivery partners throughout the redevelopment. Some travel will be required.

Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and experience

• Programme experience delivering major infrastructure, capital works, or other large-scale programmes.
• The ability to lead across multiple workstreams and keep people aligned.
• Strong judgement and a practical approach to managing risk, issues, dependencies, and competing priorities.
• Experience working with senior leaders, governance groups, and a wide range of stakeholders.
• Confidence operating in complex environments where plans evolve and decisions often involve balancing competing needs.
• Strong programme management skills, including planning, reporting, financial oversight, and delivery coordination.
• A collaborative leadership approach that brings out the best in others and supports high-performing teams.

Nga painga | The benefits

The midpoint of the salary range is $182,127 per annum and the full range (85%-120%) is $154,808 - $218,553 per annum. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.

In addition, you will benefit from:

• A fixed-term opportunity through to 30 March 2030.
• Exposure to one of New Zealand's largest and most complex infrastructure programmes.
• Professional development and the opportunity to work alongside experienced programme delivery professionals.
• The chance to contribute to a significant investment in the future of New Zealand's custodial network.

Mo matou | About us

Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Maori in correctional facilities. As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whanau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our Hokai Rangi strategy.

We value inclusion and diversity in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve. We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.

Tono inaianei | Apply Now

To submit an application and view the position description, click the apply link. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency - applications received via email will not be considered.

When applying, submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.

Applications close on: Tuesday 3rd November

If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact [email protected], or visit careers.corrections.govt.nz.

We are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this role. Unsolicited CVs submitted by agencies will not be accepted and no agency fees will apply.