Operations Manager

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Green by Nature seeks an Operations Manager in Dannevirke to lead a team of 11 across mowing, asset maintenance, and horticulture for Tararua District Council’s parks and spaces. This 50/50 office and hands-on role demands a proven leader who can set targets, manage budgets, and deliver projects on time, while keeping operations safe and community focused. Key strengths include strong communication, stakeholder relationship management, recruitment and team development, and the ability to thrive under unexpected challenges. Essential: NZ driver’s licence (manual), and a background in horticulture or sports turf preferred. Offer: performance-based salary, wellness benefit, company vehicle and phone, and growth opportunities. Pre-employment drug test and Ministry of Justice check apply.

Green by Nature is proud to be the chosen service provider for Tararua District Council, entrusted with maintaining the regions stunning parks, playgrounds, and public spaces. We are looking for a passionate and experienced Operations Manager to lead the way. This is a key leadership role, and we’re seeking a driven individual who can deliver exceptional work already established while shaping the future of Tararua's outdoor spaces.

About the Role:

Reporting to the Regional Manager, your role as Operations Manager will be instrumental in ensuring our operations not only meet but exceed contract expectations, creating well-maintained and enjoyable spaces for your community and visitors to the wider Tararua district.

Leading a team of 11, you will oversee a diverse range of services, including:

• Mowing Operations
• Handyperson/Asset Maintenance
• Horticulturists ad Gardeners

To lead this important contract, we’re looking for a driven and passionate leader to guide the team and be hands-on with regular day to day operations. This is a 50/50 split between both office based management and on the tools so we're looking for the best of both!

What We're Looking For:

To excel in this role, you should be a confident leader with prior experience in the same or a similar industry and a proven track record of leading teams to success. You should be approachable, able to thrive in unexpected situations, and capable of making sound decisions to provide certainty and confidence to the team. Other key requirements we seek include:

• Proven ability to develop targets, maintain budgets, and analyse operational initiatives, with a track record of managing projects within time and budget constraints
• Excellent written and computer skills, with proficiency in report writing and the ability to effectively communicate and build strong relationships both internally and externally
• Exceptional expertise in client collaboration, building and maintaining relationships with external stakeholders to ensure clear communication and alignment with the needs and expectations of Tararua District Council
• Demonstrated experience in recruitment, performance management, engagement, training, and development
• Commitment to safety and a positive attitude towards working safely, with a dedication to upholding our company’s health and safety culture
• A qualification in Horticulture or Sports Turf Management (preferred but not essential) and hands on experience within the same or similar industry
• Full New Zealand driver’s licence, with the ability to drive a manual vehicle

What We Can Offer You:

As part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to work with a company that has been an industry leader for over 30 years. You'll gain valuable knowledge and experience, developing your career within one of Australasia’s largest green space maintenance companies. We offer:

• A performance-based salary, reviewed annually
• An annual $300 wellness benefit (after qualifying period)
• Work vehicle + a phone that's permitted for personal use
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development with internal and external training providers

If you’re ready to step into this pivotal leadership role, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help shape the future of Tararua's parks and open spaces!

In accordance with the company's Drug & Alcohol Policy, the successful candidate will be required to undergo and pass a pre-employment drug test and must pass a Ministry of Justice Request for Criminal and Driving Convictions Check.