Head of Retail Operations

Strategic, enterprise-wide impact – drive innovation and operational excellence across 80+ stores

Competitive remuneration, flexible working (3 days onsite, 2 days at home)

Make your mark in a Kiwi-owned co-operative supporting rural communities

Mō te whai waahi | About the opportunity

Farmlands – Te Whenua Tāroa is seeking a visionary Head of Retail Operations to shape the future of our national retail network. Reporting to the General Manager – Retail and Strategic Partnerships, you'll lead a high-performing team, champion innovation, and operationalise our strategic plan for retail.

Key responsibilities

Set and execute best practice standards, policies, and processes across all stores

Lead major store development projects and drive continuous improvement

Optimise workforce performance and operational efficiency

Collaborate with senior leaders to deliver strategic objectives

Foster a culture of learning, engagement, and high performance

Mōhou ake | About you

You're an inspiring, energetic, and commercially savvy retail leader with a proven track record in transforming multi-site retail operations. You thrive on challenge, embrace change, and bring strategic thinking to everything you do.

You'll bring:

Significant experience leading transformation across large, multi-site retail networks

Demonstrated results in process improvement, project management, and change leadership

Strong strategic and commercial acumen, with high-level analytical skills

In-depth knowledge of retail systems and operational efficiencies

Bachelor's degree in business, management, or related discipline (preferred)

Determination, adaptability, and a continuous improvement mindset

You empower teams, drive accountability, and foster a high-performance culture.

Mō ngā painga | What's in it for You

Balance that works – Flexible working (3 days onsite, 2 days at home) and paid birthday leave

Rewarding package – Competitive salary

Unique Farmlands perks – Exclusive Farmlands Card discounts and special purchasing opportunities in-store

Wellbeing and support – Sick leave from Day 1, annual flu shots, Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), and additional support for parents

Great place to work – Pet-friendly Christchurch office, free parking, and great coffee

Grow your career – Access to tailored learning platforms and professional development

Mō matou | About us

Farmlands Te Whenua Tāroa is New Zealand's largest farming co-operative, driven by our values: Be You, Minds Open, and See It Through. With over 1,200 team members across 80+ locations, we support NZ farmers and growers to boost profitability and productivity, aiming to be the trusted partner for everyone connected to the land.

Join a Kiwi-owned brand that values your uniqueness, creativity, and teamwork in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Te Tono | How to apply

Ready to make your mark? Apply now to lead a team that's Out Here Too – supporting our land, our people, and our communities.

Applications close: 4 January

Please note that applications received 15 December 2025 onwards will be reviewed on our return from 5 January 2026 onwards. Wishing you a very Meri Kirihimete

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.

Please note that the successful candidate will have to go through pre-employment checks before starting with us at Farmlands. These will include two references from your two most recent managers, a Ministry of Justice Check, proof of your right to work in New Zealand, a driver's licence check and an ACC background check. For certain roles a drug and alcohol test, credit check and AML check may be required.

Team

Retail

Role

Retail Operations

Locations

Christchurch Support Office

Job Type

Permanent - full-time