Program Controls Manager - Operations

• Competitive package + KiwiSaver and FREE parking + 20% discounted childcare on the precinct 

• 4-year fixed-term, full-time position until Dec 2029, flexible work arrangements 

• Join a newly formed team here at AKL and become part of the transformation 

What you will be doing 

The Program Controls Manager – Operations will maintain oversight of operational documentation, approvals, and risk management for the operations team as they interface with the infrastructure build through construction, ensuring deadlines are met and processes are followed. 

You’ll be the go‑to person for process governance, documentation quality, and risk visibility — helping the team deliver consistent and optimal operational outcomes. 

Your key responsibilities are: 

• Track and coordinate multiple governance activities and documentation across complex infrastructure programmes, ensuring robust governance, programme controls, and operational integration. 

• Manage tight deadlines and competing priorities while maintaining up‑to‑date records of all operational integration activities, risks, and progress. 

• Own and manage the operational risk register, supporting risk owners with mitigation planning and maintaining visibility of emerging risks. 

• Assess, document, and process all operational scope changes in alignment with the internal operations process and the formal SCN process. 

• Pre‑review executive papers, business cases, approval packs, and scope change forms to ensure clarity, accuracy, completeness, and alignment with governance requirements. 

• Work closely with the Infrastructure PMO and Strategic Planning governance team to ensure alignment, smooth handover of documentation, and consistent application of frameworks. 

• Navigate differing stakeholder perspectives and requirements, communicating governance expectations, deadlines, and process updates clearly and effectively. 

• Support the Head of Integration & Readiness with reporting for the COO, Programme Control Groups (PcGs), and other governance forums. 

• Ensure Integration & Readiness frameworks and processes are applied effectively, acting as the assurance function for the team. 

• Identify opportunities to improve governance processes and documentation standards, applying a methodical, structured, and adaptable approach to all tasks. 

What you’ll bring to the role 

At Auckland Airport, we are a busy hive of activity, and a lot of what we look for is how you would align with our AKL values All In | Tātou tatou – How we feel, Know How | Kōkiri Tahi – How we think and Let’s Go | Karawhiua – How we act.  

To ensure your success in this role, you will need: 

• Degree qualification in project management i.e. Prince   

• Experience in programme coordination, governance, or project management roles within infrastructure, aviation, or transport environments. Min 5 years 

• Understanding of governance structures, project gating processes, and documentation requirements. 

• Experience working with cross-functional teams and interfacing with governance and PMO functions. 

• Familiarity with business case development, approval processes, and scope change/variation management. 

• Understanding of infrastructure project delivery and operational requirements. 
  
  
   

About us 

From the arrival of the Tainui Waka into the Manukau Harbour, Auckland Airport has always been a place of journeys. We stand proudly as the gateway to Aotearoa, welcoming travellers beginning their journeys, farewelling Kiwis to new destinations, connecting businesses and workers to new opportunities, and celebrating partners and investors who back us along the way. We have ambitions to be a global hub and a comprehensive development programme to deliver this vision. 

With so many moving parts to keep the airport precinct running, it’s our collaboration and passion that keeps everything together. This is what our culture and heritage have been built on. When you work with us, you’ll share our ambition to be a great New Zealand business, and one that’s making a strong contribution to the wellbeing of our communities and economy. 

E mahi ana mātou mō Aotearoa. We are working for New Zealand. 

Auckland Airport is more than just a business. It’s a truly unique place with an important role to play in New Zealand’s recovery. Together we’re its custodians, knowing that the work we do has the power to create positive change for our customers, the community, the environment and for the prosperity of Aotearoa. We’re all about creating a sense of place where everyone can thrive, and one where others aspire to work. We’re a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome people from all walks of life. 

Whiria te tangata. Our values weave us together. They’re what we stand for, who we are and how we act. 

Apply today 

If this role sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you. Click the "Apply" button now.  

Please note that applications will be reviewed continuously throughout the recruitment period, and appointments may be made before the official closing date of the advert. 

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