South Canterbury Area Manager

The Opportunity

We’re looking for an experienced and people-focused Area Manager to lead our operations across multiple depots in the South Canterbury region.

Reporting to the Director of Operations, you’ll ensure day-to-day service runs safely, efficiently, and to a high standard, while also leading teams, driving performance, and championing a strong health and safety culture.

This is a key leadership role, with real impact across our network and the chance to be part of Ritchies’ transformation journey as we modernise and decarbonise our fleet.

Team Ritchies

Ritchies is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest and most trusted public transport providers. With more than 2,500 people across the country, we deliver safe and reliable bus and coach services to schools, councils, communities, and businesses.

You’ll be joining us at a pivotal time, as we lead the shift to more sustainable, customer-focused transport services.

About You

You’re an operational leader with a strong background in running multi-site teams. You balance commercial thinking with a focus on people and safety, and you’re known for being calm under pressure, strategic in your planning, and collaborative in your leadership style.

You build strong relationships, whether with depot teams, executive leaders, or external stakeholders, and you lead by example, always pushing for better.

What You’ll Be Doing

Leading day-to-day service delivery across depots in your region

Supporting and coaching Depot Managers and Supervisors

Managing depot performance, safety, customer satisfaction, and cost control

Driving improvement, consistency, and change across sites

Reporting on metrics and performance to the executive team

Representing Ritchies with external partners, including councils and industry groups

Playing a key role in tenders, expansions, and strategic projects

What You’ll Bring

10+ years in a senior, multi-site operational leadership role

Strong people and financial management skills

Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement ability

Experience in regulated, customer-facing industries

A collaborative, forward-thinking approach to leadership

Confidence presenting at senior and industry level

What You’ll Get

A leadership role with national impact and purpose

A company vehicle and full tools to succeed

A supportive team and collaborative environment

Opportunities to grow your career in a large, stable business

The chance to shape the future of public transport in Aotearoa

The Process from Here

We’re an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive workplace. As part of our process, pre-employment checks will include Ministry of Justice vetting, drug and alcohol testing, and reference checks.

Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand at the time of application.

Apply now with your CV and a brief cover letter. We’re reviewing applications as they arrive.

#J-18808-Ljbffr