Programme Manager - Strategic Initiatives.

We're looking for an experienced Project or Programme Manager to help shape and deliver the transformational change that will drive our network forward. In this role, you'll initiate, manage and report on the delivery of the Northpower Network business change portfolio, help manage capex and opex project budgets, support business change initiatives, and oversee strategic projects that require robust governance and oversight. You'll manage some individual projects within the Network Business Plan as capacity allows. If you thrive at the intersection of strategy, delivery, stakeholder engagement, and leadership, this is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in New Zealand's electricity sector.

What you'll be doing:

Strategic Planning

• Help lead business planning alongside the Network Leadership Team (NLT), including prioritisation of strategic initiatives.
• Provide regular programme updates to the NLT and key stakeholders.
• Support development of long-term OPEX and CAPEX profiles for non-network assets.
• Act as a change champion to drive successful adoption of strategic initiatives.

Portfolio, Programme & Project Management

• Initiate business plan initiatives and ensure seamless handover to Project Managers.
• Lead and contribute to steering groups, providing clear and comprehensive reporting.
• Manage projects and project teams to deliver on time, within budget, and to agreed outcomes.
• Oversee governance, reporting, compliance requirements, and stakeholder expectations.
• Prepare accurate financial year budgets, forecasts and reports.

Network Platforms & Group Digital Collaboration

• Support development of the Network Business Change Framework.
• Contribute to the Network Platforms Roadmap.
• Work closely with Group Digital to leverage shared capabilities, identify common solutions, and support digital best practice across the Northpower group.

Stakeholder Engagement & People Leadership

• Lead, coach and support a team of Project Managers and Business Analysts.
• Build strong relationships with internal teams, suppliers, vendors, advisors, and industry peers.
• Role model Northpower's behaviours and foster open communication and collaboration.

Continuous Improvement & HSQE

• Identify opportunities for business and safety improvements.
• Ensure all Northpower equipment and property is well maintained.
• Champion a strong health, safety, quality, and environmental culture.
• Maintain 100% compliance with HSQE standards and proactively report incidents.

About You:

• A recognised Project Management qualification (Prince2, PMP, or similar).
• 10–15 years' experience across infrastructure, engineering, digital, or electricity industries.
• Proven experience in programme/project management and reporting.
• Strong communication skills, financial literacy, and ability to influence across all levels.
• A proactive, collaborative leadership style and commitment to continuous improvement.

What's in it for you?

• Competitive remuneration.
• An in-house well-being programme, a peer support network (Kaitiaki) and EAP services.
• Life Insurance and group discounted medical insurance.
• Commitment to professional growth and development.
• A friendly workplace where people are valued and appreciated.
• Family-friendly events and discounted gym membership along with various retail discounts.

About us: Northpower is an electricity and fibre network provider for Whangarei and Kaipara, with more than 60,000 connected customers. We are one of the largest multi-utility contractors in New Zealand, servicing the needs of clients in transmission, distribution, generation, fibre, renewables, and commercial sectors. We have a reputation for excellence and innovation, providing commercially viable solutions for electrical and telecommunication design, construction, and maintenance requirements. We have over 1,400 staff working together across 16 locations to keep the power on and the lights going for our customers. If you love turning big ideas into real outcomes and keeping everything (and everyone!) moving in the right direction, this one's for you.

Apply now via #REQ1889 and help power Northpower's next stage of transformation. New Zealand work rights are required for the role. Pre-employment checks will include a criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing, and a medical assessment.