Job Description

Are you a seasoned commercial leader ready to shape one of New Zealand’s key infrastructure projects? HEB Construction is looking for an experienced Commercial Manager to play a pivotal role in driving commercial excellence across one of our largest programmes.

As part of the global VINCI Construction network, HEB is a rapidly growing civil infrastructure leader, delivering some of Aotearoa’s most complex and community‑shaping projects. Our capabilities span road and rail, bridges, ports and marine works, roading maintenance and surfacing, and major urban developments across the country.

With HEB expanding its footprint and taking on increasingly significant projects, this is an exciting opportunity to influence a flagship programme and lead a talented commercial team within a high‑performing, people‑focused organisation. The project is based in Marlborough in the South Island of New Zealand.

You can read more about the project here

https://portmarlborough.co.nz/waitohi-ferry-redevelopment-project/

About the Role

Reporting to the Project Director, you’ll be the commercial powerhouse of the project, ensuring robust contract management, accurate forecasting, strong supplier & subcontractor relationships, and effective financial governance. In this role you will:

• Lead all commercial operations across the project, ensuring financial performance, cost control, and commercial compliance.
• Drive contract and subcontract management, including negotiation, claims, variations, EOTs and monthly valuations.
• Build and mentor a high‑performing commercial team with a culture of ownership, innovation and excellence.
• Oversee procurement systems, IT interfaces and project reporting.
• Build strong relationships with internal teams, suppliers, subcontractors, and the Client.
• Champion HEB’s can-do culture, leading by example every day.

This role has a direct impact on the project’s commercial success and is central to ensuring delivery excellence for HEB and the community.

• Tertiary qualification in Quantity Surveying, Accounting, or Law.
• 10+ years’ experience in QS or commercial management within large‑scale, complex infrastructure.
• 5+ years proven leadership experience.
• Strong financial acumen and contract management capability.

You’ll bring outstanding communication and negotiation skills, along with hands‑on experience managing the financial and commercial aspects of civil or infrastructure contracts. Your strong commercial acumen and deep understanding of contractual frameworks enable you to confidently navigate complex agreements, while your ability to build and maintain excellent relationships with clients and stakeholders fosters long‑term collaboration. You’re a proven leader who can inspire, coach, and develop others, paired with a genuine passion for operational excellence and continuous improvement.