Commercial Promotions and Operations Lead
Date: 9 Oct 2026
Location: Auckland, NZ, 1010
Company: New Zealand Rugby Union Incorporated
Overview
Be the operational lead behind our partnerships, delivering promotions, activations and player access across all Teams in Black.
Behind every rugby moment is a group of commercial partners who help make the game possible, from grassroots to the international stage. New Zealand Rugby is looking for a Commercial Promotions & Operations Lead to make sure those partners get full value from their partnership, and an excellent experience every time they work with us. This is a permanent, full time role based in Auckland.
About the Role
You’ll lead the planning and delivery of promotions, activations and player commercial access across all Teams in Black, working closely to balance partner needs with team programmes and player welfare. You’ll own our Commercial Calendar, manage budgets for promotions, appearances and memorabilia, and lead a range of programmes across the organisation. Alongside this, you’ll drive partner communications and engagement, onboarding, and you’ll be the operational lead for the team, building the systems and processes that help us deliver consistently well. You’ll also help to support major projects and pinnacle events, including Rugby World Cup and the British & Irish Lions.
About You
You’ll bring at least five years’ experience in a commercial, sponsorship, marketing or agency environment, with a strong grasp of contractual rights, activations and budget management. Experience with a sports rights holder or in player marketing would be a real advantage. You’re highly organised, calm under pressure and confident working with senior stakeholders, partners, players and agents. You take ownership, notice the detail and are always looking for ways to do things better. You’re also comfortable with some travel and working outside standard hours, including Test Match days, when the game calls for it.
What We Offer (benefits)
• Learn & Grow Your Career | Flexible Work Environment
• Receive Rugby Tickets | Sports Apparel | Discounts
• Wellbeing | 5 weeks Annual Leave | Social
About Us
At NZR we love what we do, we work hard and have fun! You’ll be joining a team of awesome people who are passionate about the game and each other, and you’ll be backed with support to thrive in your role. We know that life isn’t all about work, so we are open to flexible working options.
We value diversity and inclusion and are committed to improving our cultural responsiveness. We embrace and respect each other’s values and we are so proud to be Rainbow Tick certified. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and walks of life.
Apply Now
If you are looking to join a fantastic group of people and think you have what it takes, then don’t delay, submit your CV and cover letter now! Don’t wait until the closing date to apply as we will be reviewing applications as we go.
>> Applications close at 5:00pm, 22 October 2026.
>> For a copy of the position description, click here
>> To be considered for this position you must be legally entitled to work in Aotearoa New Zealand and obtain a clear MOJ check.
Studies have shown that people from under-represented backgrounds, including women, are less likely to apply for roles where they don't match the job description criteria exactly. If you're excited about this role and think you have what it takes, but your experience doesn't align 100%, we still want to hear from you and would encourage you to apply.
Our recruitment process is fair and inclusive and we encourage our applicants to let us know if we can make it more user-friendly for them. We value diverse perspectives and the contribution every one of our people makes to our culture. Put simply - you can be yourself here.