National Operations Manager

We have an exciting opportunity for a National Operations Manager to join our Department of Corrections and Ministry of Justice team, taking a pivotal role within our high-performing operations division. Reporting to the National Manager, you will drive operational excellence and lead the delivery of high-quality, reliable outcomes that support the seamless delivery of our essential national services.

Te Kōwhiringa | The Opportunity

Downer holds a long-term Asset Management and Facilities Management contract with the Department of Corrections and the Ministry of Justice that proactively manages and delivers to the national portfolio of facilities including 15 prisons, 98 courts and 141 community correctional sites.

We are seeking a driven, resilient, and highly capable leader to take on a critical national role overseeing multiple sites and managing approximately 7,000–8,000 jobs per month. This position demands a professional who thrives under pressure, demonstrates exceptional organisational and leadership skills, and consistently upholds the Zero Harm philosophy.

This is an opportunity for a seasoned leader who can balance strategic oversight with operational delivery — someone who leads by example, inspires their teams, and ensures the highest standards of safety, quality, and service across a national portfolio. Based in the Auckland office, your main responsibilities will be;

What You'll Do

• Prioritise Zero Harm and uphold strong safety standards.
• Lead the team in alignment with Downer's culture, values, and collaborative approach.
• Foster positive customer relationships through value-adding and transparent engagement.
• Ensure compliance and performance across all contract deliverables, KPIs, and security requirements.
• Build and manage subcontractor relationships, ensuring adherence to contract obligations.
• Drive operational efficiency and profitability through effective management, cost control, and delivery excellence.
• Promote innovation and business growth, supporting technical solutions and broader development opportunities within the Utilities and Downer teams.

This is a fantastic role that will suit someone who is outcome-focused, enjoys a challenge, and is able to take initiative whilst building great relationships with our team and client.

Nga pūkenga matua | Important Skills

• Champion Zero Harm, promoting a strong safety-first culture.
• Hold technical (trade-based) and/or management qualifications with proven leadership skills.
• Bring 10+ years' industry experience and at least 5 years' operational leadership of large multi-trade teams.
• Demonstrate strong operational, commercial, and financial acumen with a focus on efficiency, quality, and compliance.
• Show ownership, commitment, and a motivated, positive "can-do" attitude.
• Possess excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills, fostering collaboration and performance excellence.

More than anything, you'll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients.

Ko wai mātou | Our Organisation

At Downer, we plan, create, and sustain essential public services across Australia and New Zealand. From hospitals to data centres and defence partnerships, we manage critical infrastructure that keeps communities thriving.

Ko te take ka parekareka e koe ki te mahi ki kōnei | Why you will enjoy working here

We're proud of our high-performance culture and commitment to diversity, offering:

• Training and development to support and diversify your career.
• With 30% of vacancies filled internally you'll find real opportunities to advance your career.
• : healthcare discounts, great savings on retail purchases, car purchases and much more.
• Employee Assistance Program: professional support for you and your family when you need it most.
• A company car is provided as part of this role.

You want your work to matter and so do we. With over 26,000 people across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, our team is made up of individuals with unique perspectives, backgrounds, and ideas.

We know that diversity makes us stronger and we actively celebrate it through our commitment to inclusion and belonging.

We're committed to building a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve and we welcome people of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, abilities, and lived experiences. We especially encourage applications from those whose voices have traditionally been underrepresented in our industry, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Māori and Pasifika Peoples, veterans, people with disability, and neurodivergent individuals. Even if your experience doesn't align perfectly with this role, we'd still like to hear from you. If it feels like the right fit, apply - potential counts, and so do you.

If you need support or adjustments through the recruitment process, just let us know, we're here to help you put your best foot forward.

Me pēhea ki te tono | How to apply

Click "APPLY" and please include your CV and copies of relevant licenses/qualification. The reference number for this role is

We are committed to a safe working environment for everyone - all successful applicants will be required to undertake a pre-employment drug test, medical and a Ministry of Justice check prior to starting employment. If you need support with this requirement, please talk to our team.