Principal Contract Officer

About the role

The Principal Contract Officer leads cross‑functional teams responsible for negotiating, implementing and managing service contracts that support vulnerable individuals, families and communities. This senior position drives a performance‑focused, customer‑centric culture while upholding core public‑sector values.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee end‑to‑end procurement processes, including tendering and market analysis, in partnership with business areas.
• Lead contract development, renegotiation and ongoing management for a diverse supplier base, ensuring compliance with legislation, policies and investment specifications.
• Analyse supplier performance data to improve outcomes and manage non‑compliance issues.
• Provide strategic advice to senior management on service delivery improvements and change initiatives.
• Mentor and direct contract management staff on legal, financial, compliance and cultural matters.
• Coordinate projects that enhance procurement outcomes for vulnerable client groups.

Required profile

• Extensive knowledge of the contract lifecycle and public‑sector procurement models.
• Proven leadership experience managing multidisciplinary contract teams.
• Strong analytical ability to interpret supplier performance information.
• Excellent communication skills for negotiating with government agencies, suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence public‑service delivery at a state level.
• Collaborative environment focused on continuous improvement.