Commercial Manager - Ruakura Superhub

Posted 03 June 2025
LocationWaikato
Job type Permanent
DisciplineCommercial Property
Reference949449

Job description

Tainui Group Holdings (TGH) is the commercial entity entrusted with growing the commercial assets of Waikato-Tainui in line with iwi values. With a strong foundation in property development and investment, TGH is focused on delivering long-term prosperity for the iwi and its 90,000+ members. Their mission, Whakatupu rawa, whakatupu tangata, whakatupuranga – Grow the assets to grow the people for generations, reflects their commitment to creating opportunities that benefit both their iwi and the wider region.

The Ruakura Superhub is a transformative project for New Zealand’s logistics and industrial sectors. Spanning 610 hectares, it is one of the country’s largest integrated developments, strategically located to unlock significant economic and employment opportunities. With the recent partnership between TGH and global investment firm Brookfield, the Superhub is poised to deliver world-class infrastructure and attract leading businesses to the Waikato region. This partnership combines TGH’s deep local expertise with Brookfield’s global investment and operational capabilities, ensuring the success of this landmark project.

As Commercial Manager, you will play a pivotal role in driving the commercial performance of the Ruakura Joint Venture (JV). Reporting to the GM Development, you will lead the financial and commercial activities of the JV, ensuring compliance with agreements, optimising returns, and fostering collaboration with key partners. Blending commercial excellence with iwi aspirations, this is a unique opportunity to shape the future of logistics and industrial development in Aotearoa while working alongside some of the best in the industry.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement commercial strategies to maximise the JV’s profitability, including managing financial plans, capital calls, and operational budgets.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with Brookfield, JV partners, tenants, and clients, while fostering collaboration to deliver strategic goals.
  • Ensure adherence to contractual agreements, legislative requirements, and governance frameworks, while proactively identifying and managing risks.
  • Assist in the creation of robust development plans, including financial feasibilities, procurement strategies, and risk evaluation to deliver the Superhub’s pipeline of projects.
  • Oversee contractor and consultant performance, ensuring adherence to contractual terms, budgets, and service-level agreements. Address and resolve any contract-related issues promptly and effectively.
  • Prepare high-quality commercial management reports, including board updates, JV performance metrics, and financial analysis to inform decision-making.
  • Support the seamless transition of developments from practical completion to operational assets, working closely with the Development, Project and Precinct Managers.
What You’ll Bring to the Role
  • Relevant tertiary qualification in either Engineering, Property, Law, Planning or Finance
  • Extensive expertise in a property development or commercial role, with a track record in large-scale developments, joint ventures, or infrastructure projects.
  • Strong understanding of contract law, NZS contracts, development agreements, leases, and financial management, including the ability to conduct detailed feasibilities and profitability analysis.
  • Proven ability to develop and implement commercial strategies that drive performance, mitigate risks, and deliver long-term value.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence a wide range of stakeholders, including global partners, consultants, and contractors.
  • A team player who can mentor and coach others, while working collaboratively across teams to achieve shared goals.
  • A commitment to TGH’s values of manaakitanga (care), kaitiakitanga (guardianship), pono me te tika (integrity) and mahitahi (working together).
  • Experience in logistics, industrial property, or infrastructure development is highly desirable, along with knowledge of Waikato-Tainui and tikanga Maaori.
Why Join TGH?
This is your chance to contribute to a project of national significance while working for a values-led, iwi-owned organisation that fosters a culture of empowerment, accountability, and cultural understanding. At TGH, they empower their kaimahi to deliver exceptional outcomes and make a lasting impact on the Waikato region for generations to come.

Apply Now
If you feel you meet the requirements of this role and are motivated by the reasons behind this crucial hire, please apply now, or contact Matt Donnelly confidentially on 022 019 7808.
All applications (including direct) will be reviewed and processed by Assemble Recruitment only.