Manager, Property Partnerships

Mō te tūnga | About the role

The Defence Estate is a complex network of approximately 81,000 hectares of land and 5,000 buildings spread across nine camps and bases, two large land training areas and various regional locations.

The purpose of Defence Estate and Infrastructure is to develop, maintain and manage land, property and infrastructure assets in order to support NZDF military capabilities and all of government outcomes.

NZDF’s estate will be evolving significantly over the past two decades, with an increasing focus on commercial approaches to property management and delivery. This has seen a shift from traditional ownership models towards innovative tenure arrangements, strategic partnerships, and flexible property solutions.

For this central Wellington based role, we are seeking an experienced property professional with broad expertise across property management, tenure arrangements, and commercial matters. You will bring a strong understanding of complex property issues, including easements, licences, land-related legislation, and stakeholder interests.

This is a diverse and strategically focused role where no two challenges are the same. You will assess complex property matters, undertake detailed research and analysis, and provide informed, proactive recommendations based on your subject matter expertise. Your ability to navigate ambiguity, identify opportunities, and deliver practical solutions will be key to your success.

Ideally, we are looking for a January 2027 start date.

The salary for this role ranges from $117,440 to $129,827, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.

Once you have undergone training and are up to speed, there is the option for flexible working arrangements.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We are looking for a highly capable professional with expertise in property, commercial, and stakeholder management, supported by strong analytical and negotiation skills.

You will bring experience in:

• Property tenure and contract management,
• A sound understanding of Treaty of Waitangi principles, and
• Public sector procurement requirements.

Experience working with Defence or within a comparable government environment would be advantageous.

Success in this role requires the ability to navigate complex issues, balance competing priorities, build consensus among diverse stakeholders, and deliver pragmatic, enduring outcomes.

You will be a strategic thinker, skilled communicator, and confident negotiator with proven experience managing commercial relationships, outsourced service providers, and challenging programmes of work.

A relevant tertiary qualification in Property, Law, Finance, Resource Management, Business Studies, or a related discipline is highly desirable.

This role is based in Wellington CBD and includes travel to NZDF camps and bases throughout New Zealand. As travel is a regular part of the role, a full, clean Class 1 driver's licence is required.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Thursday 26 November 2026.

Use the links on this page where you’ll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves – please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here’s what you need to know:

Low Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last five (5) years.
• You must have a five (5) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.