Project Director at Wellington Water

Lower Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

03 May, 26

Salary

178337.0

Posted On

02 Feb, 26

Experience

10 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Project Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Financial Management, Safety Leadership, Quality Management, Continuous Improvement, Team Leadership, Communication, Contract Management, Procurement, Infrastructure Development, Water Services, Community Engagement, Investment Strategy, Performance Oversight, Consultant Management

Industry

Utilities

Description

Drive the delivery of all phases of major critical three water infrastructure projects Lead region‑shaping, critical three water infrastructure projects Own the delivery strategy of performance of major programmes Lead portfolio of complex, high‑value, strategically vital work. This is a full-time position of 40 hours per week The remuneration range for this role is $126,322 to $178,337 (including KiwiSaver), depending on skills and experience. The opportunity Over the coming years, Wellington Water will significantly expand its water services delivery programme, accelerate investment and lift delivery performance across the region. As Project Director, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and growing this programme — providing leadership, structure, and direction as we deliver an ambitious pipeline of critical infrastructure. The Project Director is responsible for leading a team of project managers to deliver multiple precedent-setting projects simultaneously across the region. You will lead the delivery of the Wellington region's most significant, complex and high-value water infrastructure projects. The successful delivery of critical projects that will enable the Wellington region to meet its three waters requirements. The Project Director will apply best-practice processes to the management, planning, design, and implementation of water projects. You will have the autonomy to use your experience to influence and shape investment decisions, deliver strategies, and project governance. By focusing on developing a positive, high-performance team culture, you will work collaboratively within Wellington Water and with our supply chains to achieve strategic outcomes. By partnering with internal stakeholders, you will deliver successful project outcomes by steering investment casing and maintaining accountability across the full delivery lifecycle. To be successful in this role, you will be skilled in: Taking responsibility for the direction, management and financial outcome of the critical projects and programmes Leading the development and delivery within scope, time, and budget parameters Championing safety in all aspects of design and build Leading communication and engagement with stakeholders, customers, and the community Providing leadership and guidance on contracts and procurement, achieving demonstrable value across the supply chain Overseeing quality management programmes to achieve contract compliance and a quality project Overseeing the performance of consultant contractors, and wider supply chain Contributing to continuous improvement efforts in Project and Programme Management by identifying process gaps Interact with senior management at Wellington Water and governance structures as required. The ideal candidate will bring proven experience leading major, complex projects in the construction or infrastructure environment, with a track record spanning the full delivery lifecycle - from early planning, business casing, consenting, and design, through procurement, delivery, commissioning, and handover. You will hold a relevant tertiary qualification, and a qualification in project management will be an advantage. Just as important, you understand how to bring diverse groups together to deliver high-quality outcomes. You’re a confident communicator, an influential leader, and someone who can build strong relationships across consultants, contractors, and internal stakeholders to keep large programmes moving in the right direction. Benefits At Wellington Water, our purpose extends beyond delivering great water services for the region; we foster a thriving community, support a diverse workforce, and offer supportive development opportunities. We genuinely care about your safety and well-being. Our benefits include: Flexible working arrangements, including up to 2 days working from home Comprehensive wellbeing programme, including one paid wellbeing day annually Formal and informal professional development opportunities 5 weeks of annual leave accrual will be available following 2 years of continual service For a full list of our employee benefits, click Here About us Wellington Water is the professional water services provider across Greater Wellington and South Wairarapa. Our job is to provide safe and healthy drinking water, collect and treat wastewater, and ensure the stormwater network is well managed. We’re a multi-council-owned entity, tasked to manage the infrastructure and deliver water services to our communities. The value of water (a precious taonga) sits at our organisational heart. Our people are passionate about providing waters services for our communities and environment which is reflective in our values; Tangata Tiaki, Whānau and Mana. Applications close: 20th February 2026 How to apply To view a copy of the position description: Click Here To apply for the role, click on the ”apply” button or visit the Wellington Water Careers site, please note if you are a Wellington Water employee please apply using your work email. For further information, email: JoinUs@wellingtonwater.co.nz Applicants will be required to undergo drug and alcohol testing prior to commencing employment with Wellington Water. You must also be legally entitled to work long-term in New Zealand or eligible to obtain a working visa.

Responsibilities

The Project Director is responsible for leading a team of project managers to deliver multiple high-value water infrastructure projects. This role involves shaping and growing the water services delivery programme while ensuring successful project outcomes.