Manufacturing Operations Manager

The Company & The Opportunity

A leading New Zealand manufacturing and technology business with a global footprint is continuing to grow its supply chain capability to support an increasingly complex and international customer base.

As part of this evolution, an opportunity has arisen for an experienced Supply Chain Manager to lead end-to-end planning, production, and supplier operations, driving performance, efficiency, and delivery excellence across multiple regions.

Reporting to the Head of Operations, you will take ownership of global manufacturing operations, working closely with third-party contract manufacturers and internal stakeholders to ensure accurate forecasting, robust planning, and seamless product delivery.

You'll play a key role in aligning supply and demand, optimising inventory, and enabling scalable growth through data-driven decision making and strong supplier relationships.

This is a career-defining opportunity for an experienced and commercially astute supply chain leader who enjoys working across global operations, thrives on complexity, and delivers tangible results through collaboration and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Manufacturing & Supply Operations:

• Oversee production planning and coordination with global contract manufacturers to meet delivery schedules and quality targets.
• Develop accurate monthly production forecasts integrating ERP and CRM data to maintain a rolling 12-month outlook.
• Manage supplier and component reviews, risk assessments, and contract negotiations to ensure cost optimisation and supply resilience.
• Lead regional MRP reviews, demand planning, and inventory optimisation to support business goals.

Leadership & Collaboration:

• Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with contract manufacturers, suppliers, and internal teams.
• Lead, coach, and develop a small team to enhance analytical capability and supply chain excellence.
• Drive cross-functional communication across operations, finance, and commercial teams to ensure alignment on budgets, forecasts, and delivery plans.
• Foster a culture of accountability, performance, and continuous improvement.

Strategic Impact:

• Align manufacturing and supply strategies with business objectives, supporting growth, cost management, and sustainability goals.
• Implement effective risk management frameworks to minimise supply disruptions.
• Prepare and manage annual budgets and operational OKRs, ensuring delivery, quality, and cost targets are achieved.
• Support compliance across regulatory, sustainability, and customer requirements.

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience managing end-to-end manufacturing or supply chain operations in a complex, fast-paced environment.
• Strong commercial acumen with a track record of improving key metrics such as DIFOT, forecast accuracy, and inventory performance.
• Confident negotiator experienced in supplier management and contract manufacturing partnerships.
• Expertise in ERP/MRP systems and advanced data analysis tools.
• Degree qualified in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Engineering, or Business.
• Lean/Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher) is desirable.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and lead through change.

What's In It For You?

Join a globally connected New Zealand business that combines innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement at its core. You'll have the opportunity to lead impactful supply chain initiatives, build strategic supplier partnerships, and shape the operational framework that supports global growth.

This is a hands-on leadership role that requires you to lead a team, develop and improve supply chain capability and roll your sleeves up to get things done. There is a career pathway to grow and develop your career in the role, taking on further responsibility and a larger team. 

Competitive remuneration, professional development opportunities, and the chance to make a real difference in a high-performing, collaborative environment await the successful candidate.

If this sounds like the challenge you've been looking for, please submit your CV via the link below. For a confidential discussion, contact Wayne Fry on or email