WM New Zealand

Operations Manager

WM New Zealand  •  Whakatane, NZ (Onsite)  •  25 days ago
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Job Description

About us:

At WM New Zealand, we are the largest composter, the largest waste-to-energy provider and have the largest commercial electric fleet in New Zealand, all powered by electricity from waste. As a team, we are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to redirect, neutralise and use waste.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Regional Manager, you will oversee the full operational performance of our Whakatāne collection fleet and Transfer Station. Your focus will be on delivering consistent, high‑quality service to customers across the Eastern Bay of Plenty while ensuring all contractual, operational, and safety standards are met or exceeded.

  • This is a hands‑on leadership role where you will:
  • Drive operational excellence across all service lines
  • Lead, coach, and develop a high‑performing team
  • Maintain accurate reporting and analyse business metrics
  • Identify issues, implement solutions, and escalate where required
  • Champion a strong health and safety culture
  • Ensure customer‑first service delivery at all times

You will play a key role in continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and the overall success of the Whakatāne branch.

Qualifications

About You

We’re looking for a professional who thrives in a fast‑paced operational environment and enjoys building strong, long‑term relationships with customers and stakeholders.

You will bring:

  • Experience in business administration, logistics, or a related field
  • Proven success in contract management or logistics operations
  • Strong leadership and people‑management capability
  • A results‑driven mindset with exceptional attention to detail
  • Experience managing multiple stakeholders and competing priorities
  • Industry experience in transport, waste, logistics, or recycling (advantageous)
  • Excellent communication skills across all organisational levels
  • Strong time‑management and organisational skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and a practical mechanical aptitude
  • Sound knowledge of health and safety legislation and safety management systems

Additional Information

What is in it for me?

You’ll be supported by a capable and committed team, including supervisors, office administrators, and a group of experienced drivers who take pride in delivering exceptional service. As part of the regional leadership team, you’ll also benefit from the backing of a strong national organisation recognised as a leader in the industry.

This role carries full responsibility for branch P&L performance, so we’re looking for someone who is commercially sharp, confident in decision‑making, and motivated to drive results.

At Waste Management, we invest in our people. You’ll have access to ongoing professional development, a supportive and collaborative team culture, and genuine opportunities to build a long‑term career within a respected, forward‑thinking organisation.

If you’re passionate about operational excellence, strong team leadership, and contributing to a more sustainable Aotearoa, we’d love to hear from you.

How to Apply

If you believe you have the skills and experience to be a part of this exciting and growing business, please click ‘apply now'.

Please note - we do not always work to fixed closing dates and may start considering applications as they are received so we encourage you to apply early.

WM is an EOE employer and promotes drug and alcohol-free workplaces.

Only applications from those with the legal right and ability to work in New Zealand will be considered for this position.

WM New Zealand

About WM New Zealand

WM New Zealand is New Zealand's leading resource recovery, recycling and waste, and environmental services provider, driven by our focus on safety, sustainability, and service and underpinned by innovation.

We provide recycling and resource recovery services, solid waste management, liquid and hazardous waste collection, treatment and disposal. We design and operate state-of-the-art waste management and recycling facilities nationwide, including leading edge sustainable modern landfill and energy parks, material recovery facilities, transfer stations and liquid, hazardous and medical waste processing facilities.

We understand that our biggest asset is our people and we’re committed to their safety and wellbeing. We’re a company where every day our people get to make a difference – whether this be through exploring recycling opportunities, looking at new ways to create energy from waste, or delivering a great customer service to building facilities that will last a lifetime.

We work with a diverse range of customers, from residential homes and small businesses, councils, through to large multinational commercial and industrial clients that span almost every industry in New Zealand, and we are proud to offer a comprehensive range of services that can be tailored to meet the needs of our customers.

Our focus is on the future, the possibilities it holds, and ultimately the protection of it.

Industry
Consulting & Advisory
Company Size
501-1,000 employees
Headquarters
East Tamaki, NZ
Year Founded
Unknown
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