Operations Manager

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Green by Nature seeks an experienced Operations Manager to lead the Masterton District Council contract, directing mowing, maintenance, horticulture and facilities operations with a strong focus on safety, budget control, and stakeholder collaboration. Reporting to the Regional Manager, you will guide a diverse team, set targets, manage projects on time and to budget, and nurture relationships with internal teams and external partners to meet council expectations. The ideal candidate has proven leadership, clear communication, and a track record turning plans into results; a horticulture or sports turf qualification is preferred but not essential, and a full NZ manual license is required. Benefits include a performance based salary, wellness allowance, a work vehicle and professional development. To apply, tailor your CV to demonstrate budget discipline, project delivery, and stakeholder engagement, and be prepared for a pre-employment drug test.

Green by Nature is proud to be the chosen service provider for Masterton 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 Masterton's outdoor spaces after an internal promotion has created this opportunity.

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 the community and visitors to Masterton.

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

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

To lead this important contract, we’re looking for a driven and passionate leader to guide the team and build on the strong foundations already in place.

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 Masterton 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)
• 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 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 Masterton’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.