Operations Manager

About the Company

This well-established, family-owned New Zealand agribusiness has built a strong reputation for quality production, long-term stability, and a genuinely supportive team culture. With a hands-on leadership style and a focus on developing their people, they offer a workplace where commitment is recognised and career progression is encouraged. This is an opportunity to join a business that values reliability, teamwork, and doing things properly.

About the Role

As the Operations Manager, you will play a key role in the day-to-day management of the growing operation. You’ll be involved across the full growing cycle, from groundwork and planting through to spraying, harvesting, and final crop production. This is a practical, hands-on leadership role that balances working in the field with guiding and supporting a small team.

You’ll lead a core team of 6–8 production operators, oversee seasonal staff during peak periods, and have a Harvest Supervisor reporting directly to you. Working closely with an agronomist and packhouse staff, you’ll help ensure crops are produced efficiently, safely, and to a high standard.

• Managing daily growing operations including planting, fertilising, spraying, irrigation, and harvesting

• Leading and coordinating field teams to maintain productivity and quality standards

• Overseeing the use and basic maintenance of agricultural machinery and equipment

• Supporting seasonal workers during peak periods and managing harvest activities through the Harvest Supervisor

• Working collaboratively with the agronomist and packhouse team to achieve production targets

About You

You’re someone who enjoys being hands-on and leading from the front. You may already have experience managing farm and crop operations, or you may be a strong second-in-command ready to step up with the right guidance and support. You’re practical, self-motivated, and comfortable working with a diverse workforce in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience leading or supervising teams in an agricultural or horticultural setting

• Strong communication skills and the ability to work with people from varied backgrounds

• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with the confidence to problem-solve on the go

• Experience operating agricultural machinery (Class 4 and/or 5 licence would be an advantage)

• A practical, adaptable approach and willingness to learn and grow into the role

If you’re looking for a long-term role with real development potential in a stable, people-focused business, this could be an excellent next step. Apply now or contact Stacey for a confidential discussion.