Operations Manager

Unique leadership role managing remote islands, backcountry recreation and one of the largest pieces of public conservation land in the Auckland Region.
- Three year island posting, with the option to extend.
- Aotea/ Great Barrier Island location, accommodation options available.

Toitū te marae a Tāne-Mahuta, toitū te marae a Tangaroa, toitū te tangata
If the land is well and the sea is well, the people will thrive
Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and sustain nature across Aotearoa. We put nature and people at the heart of our mahi, guided by te reo Māori, te ao Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
The Aotea/Great Barrier District is part of the Auckland Operations Region, which hosts close to 40% of New Zealand's population and is a major gateway and destination for international and regional visitors.
Over 60% of Aotea is cared for by the Department of Conservation, including the stunning Aotea Conservation Park with 12,000 hectares of native forest and special landscapes.
With a permanent population of just 950 people, and located in the beautiful outer Hauraki Gulf, Aotea Great Barrier Island offers a unique and enriching work/life experience.
He angitūtanga | About the role
As Operations Manager for the Aotea/Great Barrier District, you will be accountable for managing significant biodiversity, visitor and historic assets within the District. You will play a crucial role advancing the work we do with our Treaty partners and the local community. In this role you will develop initiatives that will grow the social, cultural and economic opportunities for the island and its community, including through the Tū Mai Taonga Project, in partnership with Ngāti Rehua Ngātiwai ki Aotea, to support the vision of a predator-free island.
He kōrero mōu | What we are looking for
Ideally, you'll have a background in conservation management (or equivalent transferable skills in an operations delivery role) with strong leadership and relationship management skills.
Working closely with Treaty partners, community trusts, the Local Board, community, businesses, and other stakeholders, you'll promote a strong ‘safety first' environment, ensuring that the community and local visitors have safe access to conservation land.
As a leader, you will inspire, motivate, and direct your team through effective role modelling and delegation. Setting clear objectives, providing constructive feedback, and investing in staff development are key aspects of this role. You'll foster an inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives and encourages collaboration.
**The position will be focussed on**:

- developing and adapting work plans aligned with DOC's overall strategy to ensure effective and efficient operational management of the Aotea/Great Barrier District
- building and maintaining effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including iwi, community groups, and businesses
- collaborating with other DOC teams and contributing to cross-functional initiatives, ensuring clear communication and engagement on key outcomes and issues.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
- Ideally a background in conservation management or management in a large, complex operational delivery role.
- Experience and track record of motivating teams, setting clear objectives, providing feedback, and fostering an inclusive culture.
- Understanding of Te Tiriti ō Waitangi obligations, ability to establish networks with iwi and Māori, and demonstrate a high level of cultural competence.

Join us in making a difference by leading a team dedicated to preserving one of New Zealand's unique biodiversity and recreation landscapes.
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What's in it for you?
The Department of Conservation /Te Papa Atawhai places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We're working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default.
You can learn more about what we offer here.
If you require any accommodations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.
The starting salary of the successful applicant is based on their relevant skills and experience.
Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory - this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment.
Rā katinga | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Friday 27 September 2024.
**Taupānga | Job reference**: DOC/1805939A