General Manager - Operations

The Company

A leading New Zealand-based dairy manufacturer with a long history of quality, innovation, and global export success is seeking an experienced General Manager – Site to lead operations at their facility.

Employing around 400 people, the business is a key player in the production of high-quality dairy products for international markets.

With a strong focus on excellence, safety, and sustainability, this organisation offers an opportunity to make a genuine impact within a highly regarded and well-resourced manufacturing environment.

The Position

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the General Manager – Site will hold full strategic and operational accountability for the plant.

This includes driving performance across safety, quality, productivity, cost, and culture while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

You'll lead a capable site leadership team and oversee functions spanning operations, maintenance, quality, engineering, and technical services.

Key priorities will include delivering operational excellence through Lean, Six Sigma, and TPM methodologies, ensuring compliance with food safety and environmental standards, executing capital projects, and building strong engagement with employees and external stakeholders.

This is a senior leadership role offering broad influence and the opportunity to shape the future direction of the site.

Skills and Experience

Proven senior operational leadership experience within food manufacturing or FMCG environments

A background in dairy or primary processing (highly regarded)

Strong commercial and financial acumen, with experience managing large-scale budgets and capital projects

Expertise in food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance systems

A strategic mindset with the ability to drive operational and cultural transformation

Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills

Relevant tertiary qualifications in Engineering, Food Science, or Business

Benefits

Relocation assistance of up to $20,000 for interstate or overseas candidates

Immigration and visa support provided for international applicants

Opportunity to lead a major manufacturing site with full strategic and operational ownership

Join a values-driven business committed to excellence, innovation, and sustainability

Strong focus on people development, coaching, and leadership growth

Work in one of New Zealand's most scenic regions with a great lifestyle balance

Be part of a globally recognised organisation with long-term career opportunities

For more information, please call Darren Dowling on

• or email

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