Job Description

Smart Environmental Ltd works on behalf of local councils, businesses and communities
providing waste and recycling collections. Acquired by Blue Planet and with a large fleet of collection vehicles and line haul operations, our clear focus is diverting waste from landfill.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced and hands-on Operations Manager to join our high-performing team in Wairoa. This role offers the chance to lead from the front, drive operational
excellence, and build strong relationships across our business and communities.

Are you a proactive leader who thrives on managing teams, improving performance, and delivering exceptional service? If so, Smart Environmental NZ could be the right fit for you.

About the Role

As Operations Manager, you will be responsible for the overall performance of our Wairoa and Gisborne operations, including the Wairoa Transfer Station, landfill, and collection services across both regions.

This hands-on leadership role focuses on operational performance, people leadership, fleet and resource management, customer relationships, and identifying opportunities for business growth. You
will lead a team committed to safety, efficiency, and service excellence while ensuring contractual obligations are consistently achieved.

Key Responsibilities

You will:

• Foster a strong health and safety culture through efficient, and compliant day-to-day operations
• Ensure vehicles, plant, and equipment are maintained and utilised effectively.
• Coordinate operational schedules and waste management activities.
• Lead, coach, and develop teams to achieve high levels of engagement and performance across sites.
• Manage workforce planning, rosters, recruitment, onboarding, and employee development.
• Ensure contractual requirements, reporting obligations, and key performance indicators are met.
• Monitoring performance and responding effectively to operational challenges.
• Collaborating closely with drivers, operational staff, and customer service teams.
• Maintaining high service standards and operational consistency.

About You

To succeed in this role, you will have:

• Experience in operations, logistics, transport, waste, or related industries.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams across multiple locations.
• Strong organisational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to analyse operational data and support informed decision-making.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A practical, hands-on leadership style with a focus on continuous improvement.