Operations Manager

Green by Nature is proud to be the new service provider for Nelson City Council, entrusted with maintaining the city's stunning parks, playgrounds, and public spaces. Starting July 1, 2025, we will take on this significant and high-profile contract, bringing our expertise and passion for green space management to the region.

As we build our Nelson team, we are looking for a passionate and experienced Operations Manager to lead the way. This is a key leadership role, and we’re seeking a driven individual who can continue delivering the exceptional work already established while shaping the future of Nelson’s outdoor spaces.

About the Role

Reporting to the Regional Manager, your role as Operations Manager will be instrumental in ensuring our operations not only meet but exceed contract expectations, creating well-maintained and enjoyable spaces for the community and visitors to Nelson.

Leading a dedicated team, you will oversee a diverse range of services, including:

• Playgrounds & Asset Management
• Refuse Collection
• Mowing Operations
• Horticultural Services
• Sports Field Management, including national and international events
• Arboriculture
• Sexton and Cemetery Services

To lead this important transition, we’re looking for a driven and passionate leader to guide the team and build on the strong foundations already in place.

What We're Looking For

To excel in this role, you should be a confident leader with prior experience in the same or a similar industry and a proven track record of leading teams to success. You should be approachable, able to thrive in unexpected situations, and capable of making sound decisions to provide certainty and confidence to the team. Other key requirements we seek include:

• Proven ability to develop targets, maintain budgets, and analyse operational initiatives, with a track record of managing projects within time and budget constraints
• Excellent written and computer skills, with proficiency in report writing and the ability to effectively communicate and build strong relationships both internally and externally
• Exceptional expertise in client collaboration, building and maintaining relationships with external stakeholders to ensure clear communication and alignment with the needs and expectations of Nelson City Council
• Demonstrated experience in recruitment, performance management, engagement, training, and development
• Commitment to safety and a positive attitude towards working safely, with a dedication to upholding our company’s health and safety culture
• A qualification in Horticulture or Sports Turf Management (preferred but not essential)
• Full New Zealand driver’s licence, with the ability to drive a manual vehicle

What We Can Offer You

As part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to work with a company that has been an industry leader for over 30 years. You'll gain valuable knowledge and experience, developing your career within one of Australasia’s largest green space maintenance companies. We offer:

• A performance-based salary, reviewed annually
• An annual benefit
• A work vehicle
• Discounts with company partners
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development

If you’re ready to step into this pivotal leadership role, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help shape the future of Nelson’s parks and open spaces!

📢 Important: In accordance with the company's Drug & Alcohol Policy, the successful candidate will be required to undergo and pass a pre-employment drug test.