Regional Contracts Assistant - Christchurch

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Date: 27 Mar 2026

Location: Canterbury, NZ

Company: Ministry of Social Development

 

Regional Contracts Assistant – Christchurch

 

  • Fixed term secondment opportunity available through to the 31st March 2027
  • Enhance your professional abilities through hands-on experience and cross-functional collaboration
  • $79,200 - $95,873 per year (dependant on skills and experience)

 

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Regional Contracts Assistant to join our Christchurch team. This secondment opportunity is open only to internal MSD staff, or to individuals employed outside MSD who are eligible to apply for an external secondment into MSD. This an exciting opportunity for someone with strong administrative and contracting (or other commercial) experience to contribute to the successful delivery of services in a dynamic environment. 

 

You will assist in managing service provider relationships, supporting contract management processes, and ensuring the effective delivery of contracted services which help New Zealanders to be safe strong and independent. If you have experience working in the social sector funding/contracting environment, we are keen to hear from you! 

Key Responsibilities

 

  • Monitor and report on a portfolio of provider contracts, managing performance and ensuring contract outcomes are achieved.
  • Build and maintain relationships with service providers and key stakeholders to drive service excellence.
  • Draft and finalise contracts, ensuring compliance and accuracy in business systems.
  • Work closely with internal MSD teams to monitor and drive recruitment of clients for programmes, ensuring all contracted places can be filled on schedule.
  • Assist in managing provider reporting, payments, and financial forecasting in line with contract specifications.
  • Utilise data to analyse and report on program performance, offering insights to inform decision-making.

About You

 

You are an experienced administrator with commercial acumen, and a keen eye for detail. You enjoy managing relationships and thrive in high-pressure, deadline-driven environments. You have a high level of computer literacy, particularly in Excel as well as proficiency in Word and other office software. You are confident in handling financial processes such as contract forecasting, tracking expenditure, processing invoices, and ensuring payment accuracy.

 

While previous experience in contracting systems or financial administration is highly desirable, it is not essential, as training will be provided.
 

If you are passionate about contributing to the success of MSD’s social mission and enjoy working in a fast-paced, target-driven environment, we encourage you to apply. 

Key Skills and Attributes

 

  • Strong relationship management skills and the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
  • High attention to detail with the ability to deliver accurate reports and documentation. Financial/budget forecasting and management experience will be an advantage.
  • Ability to prioritise tasks and work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
  • Are a collaborative team player who thrives in a dynamic environment.
  • Knowledge of government/social sector contracting, and/or social sector procurement is advantageous but not essential.

 

What We Offer
 

  • A competitive salary range of $79,200 - $95,873 per year.
  • Full training and development opportunities to support your professional growth.
  • A supportive and inclusive work environment with a focus on teamwork and continuous improvement.
  • A rewarding career enabling better outcomes for New Zealanders each day.

 

Important note: This secondment opportunity is open only to internal MSD staff, or to individuals employed outside The Ministry of Social Development who are eligible to apply for an external secondment.

Position Description | He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga:

 A copy of the position description can be found here: Regional Contracts Assistant position description

 

Applications close: Sunday, 5th April 2026

 

To apply, click the 'Apply Now' button to upload your CV, cover letter and complete the online application form.  
 

Note: Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key responsibilities listed in the position description. 
 

All applications must be made online.  If this is not possible or if you have any queries, please contact jobs@MSD.govt.nz

 

Joining us | Ko te hono mai
 

Joining MSD means being part of a whānau that celebrates the diversity each individual represents.

 

We show manaaki, we care about the wellbeing and success of people and want everyone to thrive and be who they are in a supportive and inclusive working environment. We work together to make a difference for communities while doing the right thing with integrity.

 

If you have any support or accessibility requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.