Refurbishment Project Manager

Role overview

Heritage Lifecare is seeking an experienced Project Manager to oversee refurbishment and capital works across its care homes and villages. This position is based in Wellington and involves travel across New Zealand as part of a national portfolio. The role is full time, with 40 hours of work per week.

Reporting to the General Manager Property, you will work closely with operational leaders, contractors, and consultants to deliver upgrades that improve resident experience, strengthen day-to-day operations, and keep facilities safe, compliant, and ready for long-term use. The organisation supports more than 2,200 residents nationwide with the help of 2,700 team members.

Key responsibilities

• Take ownership of refurbishment and capital projects from initial planning through to final completion.
• Define scope, prepare budgets and timelines, and deliver works such as resident room upgrades, common area improvements, clinical enhancements, and compliance-related projects.
• Carry out site reviews and contribute to asset planning and project ranking.
• Coordinate consultants, contractors, procurement activity, and overall project execution.
• Work alongside operational teams so that project outcomes support business priorities and resident wellbeing.
• Track budgets, schedules, quality standards, risk, and contractor performance throughout delivery.
• Make sure all work meets aged care expectations, New Zealand Building Code requirements, fire safety rules, accessibility requirements, and infection prevention guidance.
• Oversee handover, records, certifications, and rectification of defects after completion.
• Encourage a practical, collaborative approach that aligns with the organisation's values and asset strategy.

Experience and qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in project management, facilities management, construction, refurbishment, or capital works delivery.
• Proven experience delivering projects in live operational environments.
• Solid knowledge of commercial building compliance and project governance.
• Ability to manage contractors, consultants, budgets, and multiple stakeholders effectively.
• Strong communication, organisation, and problem-solving abilities.
• A relevant tertiary qualification in Project Management, Construction, Property, Engineering, Facilities Management, or a similar field.

Preferred background

• Experience in aged care, retirement living, healthcare, or a comparable setting.
• Understanding of dementia-friendly design principles.
• Experience using asset management systems.

What the role offers

• A supportive, values-led workplace where the work has real impact.
• The chance to deliver significant projects across a national organisation.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• A culture that values connection, care, and community.

About the organisation

Heritage Lifecare works in the spirit of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and applies the principles of whanaungatanga, whakapapa, and manaakitanga in how people connect and care for one another. The organisation aims to create workplaces where employees feel respected, appreciated, and supported to do their best work.

How to apply

People who are motivated by improving environments and making a positive difference in the lives of older New Zealanders are encouraged to apply. The hiring team is reviewing applications as they are received and intends to move promptly to interviews. Applicants must already have the legal right to work in New Zealand.

Additional information

This is a manager-level position. The application closing date is 05 Jul 2026. A PDF file named pd---refurbishment-project-manager.pdf is attached to the listing.