Production Manager

Role Overview

We are seeking a Production Manager to lead the launch and ongoing operations of our new manufacturing facility located in Pokeno, Waikato. This leadership role involves oversight of safety, production output, quality, and team development at the plant. The position requires a hands-on leader comfortable with both floor-level management and operational analytics. Reporting directly to the Business Unit Manager, you will have significant influence in shaping how the site functions, performs, and expands.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the project to establish and operationalize the site.
• Lead, mentor, and build the production team to enhance capabilities and future growth potential.
• Advocate a safety-first work environment, including conducting investigations, implementing corrective actions, and fostering active employee involvement in health and safety.
• Maximize efficiency in production and resource utilization while ensuring service delivery meets customer expectations.
• Uphold Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), maintain high housekeeping standards, and ensure consistent product quality.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives aimed at minimizing waste, downtime, and manufacturing expenses.
• Provide precise and prompt operational reporting.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• At least five years of robust leadership experience within a manufacturing context.
• Proven ability to elevate team performance through effective coaching rather than mere supervision.
• Demonstrated experience applying continuous improvement techniques.
• Strong skills in problem-solving, strategic planning, and decision-making.
• Commercially savvy with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
• Commitment to health, safety, and employee well-being.
• Flexibility to travel to Christchurch during initial weeks for induction and training is mandatory.

Preferred Skills (Not Mandatory)

• Familiarity with plastics manufacturing, fabrication, or sub-assembly processes.
• Mechanical or electrical aptitude.
• Experience managing projects in a growth or startup manufacturing setting.
• Forklift (F) license endorsement or willingness to obtain one.

What We Provide

• A leadership position with genuine input into the site's development and strategy.
• Comprehensive 1–2 month hands-on induction at existing group locations to ensure a complete understanding of operations.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and leadership advancement.
• A culture that values support, integrity, innovation, and customer connection.

Company Values

Our workplace prioritizes people’s well-being and safety, embraces doing what is right with integrity and innovation, and aims to create value through quality, service, and trustworthy relationships with customers.

Additional Information

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in New Zealand. Successful candidates will undergo pre-employment checks, including background screening from the Ministry of Justice and drug and alcohol testing.