Operations Manager


Service Foods is seeking a strong, capable, and detail‑oriented Operations Manager to lead our Wellington branch (Te Pātaka).

You’ll play a key role in driving operational excellence and supporting the continued success of our Pōneke operations. This role reports directly to the GM – Wellington.

Mō te tūranga mahi | About the role

As Operations Manager, you’ll oversee all aspects of our established Upper Hutt facility—managing people, processes, performance, warehouse operations, processing facilities, logistics, and inventory. You’ll play a critical role in achieving DIFOT targets, driving continuous improvement, and building capability across the branch.

Your mahi is to grow people and operations — building capability, improving systems, and driving performance across the branch. Our operation runs around the clock, so you’ll enjoy a bit of variety with occasional Saturdays, some early starts, and just one night shift each month.

🛠 Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversee daily operations across warehouse, logistics, fleet, processing facilities, and inventory.
  • Drive DIFOT performance and ensure timely, accurate delivery outcomes.
  • Lead, coach, and develop managers, supervisors, and frontline teams.
  • Implement operational improvements to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
  • Ensure accurate stock control, FIFO rotation, and minimise errors, credits, and wastage.
  • Monitor KPIs and operational metrics, taking action on performance gaps.
  • Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety and food safety requirements.
  • Manage resource planning, staffing levels, rosters, and workforce utilisation.
  • Address performance, conduct, and attendance issues promptly through proper processes.
  • Maintain and improve SOPs, ensuring best‑practice systems and smooth cross‑department coordination
  • Oversee resource allocation and scheduling to ensure timely deliveries and excellent customer service
  • Collaborate with sales and procurement teams for seamless coordination
  • Analyse KPIs and performance metrics to drive continuous improvement
  • Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and operational excellence

He kōrero mōu | About you

You will bring:

  • A tertiary qualification in business, logistics, warehousing, operations, or a related field (preferred).
  • 5+ years of leadership experience in warehouse, logistics, or operations management—ideally in foodservice or FMCG.
  • Proven experience in operational planning, performance monitoring, and resource optimisation.
  • Strong leadership skills with a track record of developing high‑performing teams.
  • Excellent communication, relationship‑building, and influencing abilities.
  • Strong problem‑solving and strategic thinking capability.
  • Proficiency in MS Office and relevant operational systems.
  • Flexibility to work outside regular hours when required.
  • Strong understanding of H&S, food safety, and compliance requirements.

Mō Service Foods | Working with us

Our values—creativity, resilience, inclusivity, collaboration, work ethic, and humility—are at the heart of everything we do. We celebrate the diversity of Aotearoa and are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive and be their authentic selves.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

If you're a hands‑on, results‑driven leader with a passion for operational excellence and growing people, we'd love to hear from you.

👉 Apply now by submitting your CV and cover letter via our Careers Page.
📌 Applications are accepted only through our online portal.

Ngā Herenga | Requirements

  • NZ citizenship, residency, or a valid work visa.
  • Successful candidates will undergo:
    • ✅ Reference checks
    • ✅ Ministry of Justice background check
    • ✅ ACC pre‑employment check
    • ✅ Drug & alcohol screening

Apply now

Permanent Full-time

Job no: 2026-2073

Location: Upper Hutt

Closing Date: Sunday, 15 March 2026