Distribution Operations Improvement Manager

Company description:

Ballance Agri-Nutrients is a New Zealand farmer-owned co-operative that helps its customers to farm more productively, profitably and sustainably.

Job description:

Distribution Operations Improvement Manager

Support strategic transformation and operational excellence across a national distribution network, driving innovation, performance, and customer satisfaction.

• Strategic Impact Across a national network
• Lead Innovation and Change
• Inspire and develop a high-performance culture

WHY BALLANCE?

Rewarding the great work of our team is important, which is why we offer a range of benefits for you and your family including:

• Free Life, Income and Trauma Insurance.
• Free Medical Insurance for you and your immediate family.
• Access to free confidential support services including EAP.
• On-going learning and development opportunities.
• Job security and excellent career progression opportunities.
• Excellent Parental Leave benefits.

ABOUT THE ROLE

This is a key leadership position within Ballance's Onshore Supply Chain, focused on delivering operational excellence and driving transformation through continuous improvement, innovation, and strategic collaboration.

In this role, you will:

• Champion safety-first culture and proactive risk management across the network.

• Drive continuous improvement and transformation projects aligned with business goals.

• Lead initiatives that enhance customer experience, satisfaction, and service delivery across the national distribution network.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver scalable, high-quality distribution outcomes.
• Lead shared support functions including onboarding, training, and system development.
• Overseeing onboarding, training, and capability development across the distribution network.
• Monitoring performance metrics and project outcomes to ensure delivery against strategic goals.
• Support annual business planning, capital execution, and stakeholder engagement.

ABOUT YOU

You're a strategic and hands-on leader with a passion for driving operational excellence and continuous improvement. You thrive in dynamic environments, bring strong commercial acumen, and know how to lead teams through change while delivering results.

To be considered for this role, you will bring:

• A safety-first mindset with practical knowledge of health, safety, and environmental standards.
• 5+ years' experience in operational, manufacturing, or supply chain environments.
• Proven ability to lead and embed continuous improvement initiatives and transformation projects.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience managing budgets and financial performance.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to lead and develop high-performing teams through coaching, mentoring, and empowerment.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills with a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach.

ABOUT US

We love New Zealand, and we care about our growth, our land, and our people. We work together to create a future we can all be proud of every day.

Our values of Imagination, Bravery, Connections and Honesty mean we look out for each other and stand for what we believe in. We take ownership for growing and developing ourselves and supporting and challenging each other so we can all reach our full potential.

Here at Ballance, you have a part to play. You can make your place and are free to make a real difference.

Together, we care about our people and our place, about the future of farming and New Zealand and we'd would love for you to join us - "Growing together, caring for people and the land. All in for the future of farming".

Applications close 23 November 2025