Head of Commercial Services Merchandising • Christchurch Support Office

Be the Commercial Leader Driving Rural New Zealand Forward

At Farmlands – Te Whenua Tāroa, we’re the go-to for everyone connected to our land. As Aotearoa’s largest farmer-owned co-operative, we’re passionate about supporting rural communities, driving innovation, and delivering value for our shareholders. We’re now seeking a visionary Head of Commercial Services to lead our high-performing team Pricing & Product and Commercial teams and shape the future of rural merchandising.

Mō te whai waahi | About the opportunity

Reporting to the Chief Merchandise Officer, you’ll lead commercial analysis, pricing, planning, and process development that underpins category management excellence. You’ll review and advise on commercial and contractual relationships, ensuring favourable terms and maximising value for Farmlands and our partners.

In this senior leadership role, you will :

• Drive commercial strategy and execution across merchandise, category management, and supply chain operations
• Lead and empower a high-performing team, fostering a culture of accountability, learning, and continuous improvement
• Oversee the Master Data and Category Support teams, ensuring operational excellence and robust systems
• Identify and develop new business opportunities, leveraging your commercial acumen to keep Farmlands competitive
• Influence the development of future initiatives, including vertical integration and innovation projects
• Champion ethical sourcing and sustainability, working with vendors to reduce environmental impact

Mōhou ake | About you

You’re a highly skilled leader with significant experience in a senior management position within Merchandise, Category Management, or Supply Chain. Your background demonstrates depth in commercial operations and a proven ability to deliver results in complex environments.

Key to your success will be :

• Exceptional communication, influencing, and interpersonal skills—you build strong relationships and get buy-in at all levels
• Familiarity with the latest techniques and technologies to improve category management and selling processes
• Proven ability in strategic planning, project planning, and execution, with a track record of delivering results
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills, always looking for ways to add value.
• A knack for seeking and implementing new opportunities, challenging the norm, and thinking outside the box
• A results-oriented approach, always striving for better outcomes for your team and the business

Mō ngā painga | What’s in it for You

• Balance that works – flexible working, sick leave from Day 1, paid birthday leave
• Rewarding package – competitive salary, shareholder offers, staff discounts
• Great place to work – pet-friendly Christchurch office, free parking, great coffee
• Grow your career – access to learning platforms and a clear path to senior leadership
• Lead with impact – work alongside senior leaders who back innovation and autonomy

About the benefits :

We offer a competitive remuneration package plus a comprehensive range of benefits :

• Flexible working conditions and a pet-friendly office
• Paid birthday leave and sick leave from day one
• Exclusive staff discounts and shareholding offers
• Career development through our online learning platform, The Greenhouse
• Additional support for parents, including fully paid parental leave
• Free parking, proximity to great eateries, and a supportive, diverse team culture

Make the Move

• Ready to shape the future of rural merchandising? Apply now to drive commercial excellence and make your mark.

Applications close 16 November 2025, but we’re reviewing applications as they come in - so don’t wait.

Mō matou | About us

At Farmlands Te Whenua Tāroa, New Zealand’s largest farming co-operative, we’re driven by three core values : Be You, Minds Open, and See It Through. We support NZ farmers and growers to boost profitability and productivity, aiming to be the trusted partner for everyone connected to the land.

With over 1,200 team members across 80+ locations, we offer diverse operations - from retail and feed production to ecommerce and fuel. Join us to be part of a Kiwi-owned brand that values your uniqueness, creativity, and teamwork in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.

The successful candidate will undergo pre-employment checks, including references, Ministry of Justice, right to work, driver’s licence, and ACC checks. Some roles may require drug / alcohol, credit, and AML checks.

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