Senior Project Manager

Leighs Construction is a New Zealand-owned and operated company that has been providing high-quality outcomes for our clients, staff, and communities for over 30 years, boasting an inclusive company culture and an iconic project portfolio throughout NZ, the wider Pacific, and the Antarctic. We plan on leaving a lasting legacy of innovative, safe structures for future generations to come.

We are looking for a Senior Project Manager to join our team, based in Christchurch.

About the project:
This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in one of New Zealand's most significant and technically demanding construction projects currently in delivery. The wider programme is being delivered under a Public Private Partnership (PPP), a collaborative model bringing together leading construction, engineering, and service delivery organisations to deliver infrastructure that will serve New Zealand for generations.

Initially office-based in Christchurch, the role will transition to a site-based position in Templeton from the final quarter of this year, placing you at the heart of the action as the project moves into its critical delivery phase.

The facility itself is a landmark piece of national infrastructure, designed for continuous 24/7 operation, incorporating highly controlled environments, complex and integrated building systems, and stringent long-term asset performance requirements. It is the kind of project that defines careers.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading project delivery to ensure safety, quality, profitability, and programme outcomes are consistently achieved, with projects completed defect free and ahead of contractual completion requirements.
• Building and leading high-performing, engaged project teams, including undertaking performance reviews, setting clear KPIs, and supporting the development of your people.
• Developing and maintaining positive, reciprocal relationships with clients, consultants, and key project stakeholders throughout the full course of the project.
• Preparing and managing detailed master construction programmes, key task methodologies, and project risk registers, with action plans to address issues as they arise.
• Overseeing procurement, including subcontractor and supplier negotiation, pre-acceptance meetings, and subcontract approvals within delegated authority.
• Managing documentation, change management, and financial performance, working with the project QS on variations, payment claims, and cashflow, and approving project expenditure.
• Driving quality assurance and health and safety compliance across all aspects of project delivery, including the management of critical risks.

About you:
You will be an exceptional leader with strong communication and stakeholder management skills, sound commercial acumen, and deep technical construction knowledge. You are results driven, solution focused, and bring the resilience and organisation needed to run complex projects in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications, skills, and experience:

• 15+ years' construction experience, including 5+ years in a similar role managing projects in the $200 million + range.
• A tertiary qualification in construction (preferred).
• A strong track record of successful project delivery and technical expertise in construction management.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to develop, motivate, and guide teams.
• Commercial acumen spanning costing, negotiation, supply chain management, and due diligence.
• Excellent problem-solving, relationship-building, and communication skills.

Joining Leighs means being part of a stable, privately-owned business that is passionate about growth and our people. We are committed to your development and wellbeing, ensuring you Work Safe, Home Safe, and Thrive at Leighs. You'll work with a passionate, proud, and dedicated team focused on making construction a better place, on a project that will shape New Zealand's future.

What now?
If you're interested in this role, click apply now and become part of our mission to shape a better future.

To be considered for this position, applicants must have New Zealand residency or hold a valid New Zealand work visa. All employees must complete a pre-employment medical check, including drug and alcohol testing, and undergo a criminal history check with the Ministry of Justice.

Please note, Leighs is conducting a comprehensive recruitment process for this position, and we are not considering agency referrals at this time.

Apply now

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