Are you ready to lead transformational, large-scale infrastructure projects in one of New Zealand’s most complex and exciting environments?
Auckland Airport, New Zealand’s gateway to the world, is seeking an exceptional Project Director to oversee and deliver ambitious infrastructure programmes. This is a rare opportunity to lead projects valued at $100M to $1B+ in an operationally live, dynamic, and highly regulated environment, where innovation and strategic thinking drive success.
Please note we will be reviewing CVs in early January when we return to the office, with interviews to take place towards the end of January.
About the Role
- As Project Director, you’ll lead the full lifecycle of multi-year, large-scale infrastructure projects across Auckland Airport’s critical terminal, airfield, and landside programmes. You will:
- Provide strategic leadership for long-term, complex projects, ensuring delivery on time, scope, quality, safety, and budget.
- Form, guide, and manage high-performing teams of contractors, consultants, and stakeholders, at times exceeding 200+ team members.
- Navigate complex operational environments, balancing interfaces with regulatory compliance, airport operations, and commercial objectives.
- Lead stakeholder engagements with airlines, border agencies, government bodies, Iwi, and key internal partners to deliver outstanding project outcomes.
- Drive innovative solutions, proactive risk management, and continuous improvement in all project phases—from design and planning to commissioning and handover.
What You’ll Bring
You are a proven, strategic leader who thrives in challenging and highly visible roles. To excel, you will bring:
Experience & Qualifications:
- 15+ years of experience leading large-scale, complex infrastructure projects, preferably within live operational environments (e.g., airports, transport hubs, or major public works).
- A tertiary qualification in Engineering, Management, or a related discipline. Post-graduate project/programme management certifications are advantageous.
- Demonstrated experience in managing end-to-end project lifecycles, including design, commercial negotiations, delivery, and commissioning.
- Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and build credibility with professional, technical, and trades staff.
Key Skills:
- Outstanding stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to engage at senior leadership and Board levels.
- Exceptional commercial acumen, problem-solving, and decision-making skills in high-pressure environments.
- Deep understanding of risk management, governance frameworks, and systems thinking approaches.
- Experience in brownfield infrastructure delivery within highly regulated industries is highly desirable.
What We Offer
This is a unique opportunity to lead some of New Zealand’s most exciting infrastructure projects while shaping the future of Auckland Airport. You’ll be joining a high-performing team driven by our values:
Whiria te tangata | Weave the people together
- All In (Tātou tātou): People-first approach, diverse and inclusive culture.
- Know How (Kōkiri Tahi): Explore, collaborate, and innovate together.
- Let’s Go (Karawhiua): Take pride, act with intent, and deliver excellence.
Ready to Shape the Future?
If you’re a strategic leader with a passion for driving infrastructure excellence in a dynamic and operationally critical environment, we want to hear from you.
Apply now to join Auckland Airport and lead projects that matter.
Auckland Airport is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Please note that applications will be reviewed continuously throughout the recruitment period, and appointments may be made before the closing date of the advert.
