Operational Delivery Manager

About the role

OSPRI is accepting expressions of interest for two Operational Delivery Managers. These are full-time, permanent positions. One will be based in the South Island and one in the North Island. We are open to applications from all our OSPRI offices, however preference will be given to our regional offices.   

Ko wai mātou - About OSPRI

OSPRI is an integrated national disease management agency and a proud part of New Zealand’s agricultural sector. We play an important part in protecting New Zealand’s biosecurity system. OSPRI currently manages three major national programmes: TBfree (directed at the eradication of bovine tuberculosis), M.bovis (directed at the eradication of Mycoplasma bovis)  and NAIT (National Animal Identification and Tracing System). We have a people strategy we are proud of where our vision is to have the most talented people doing their best work, feeling great about being a part of OSPRI. 
 
Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role:

With OSPRI taking over the delivery of on-farm testing, we are establishing a testing function to strengthen our connection with farmers and give us a direct relationship that will benefit our approach to surveillance in herds.  
 
The Operational Delivery Manager is a pivotal and highly valued senior role at OSPRI, responsible for leading regional operations for TB testing. We are looking for an experienced leader who can provide direction and support to the team, fostering a culture characterised by exceptional performance. This role oversees the management and development of the TB testing programme, turning it into actionable strategies tailored to the unique needs of the region. 
 
Additionally, this role will ensure the on-time and within-budget delivery of the TB testing operations, including forecasting and resource planning, to support the sustainable delivery of the programme. This includes conducting regular reviews to assess performance, foster continuous improvement, and optimise resource utilisation. 
 
Your operational leadership will shape and influence outcomes across the regions while being cognisant of the needs of the business at a senior management level. This is a unique opportunity to drive impactful initiatives at both tactical and operational levels. 
 
Kōrero mōu - About you:
  
In this role, you will be at the forefront, leading the wider team to deliver exceptional outcomes and ensuring our TB Testing Programme is delivered. 
  
We are looking for an experienced leader with strong operational and stakeholder management skills—someone who is solution-minded and will drive and execute our workforce planning.  
 
Your collaborative working style will guide you to be self-led, organised, and capable of planning and delivering work effectively.   
 
In addition, the ideal candidate will have:

• At least 2 years' experience in a senior role within a complex environment.
• Demonstrated experience leading a diverse and geographically distributed team.
• Understanding of disease management practices will be an advantage.  
• A human-centred approach to leadership.
• An understanding of the primary industries. 
• Proven experience in logistics management, with a strong understanding of lean management principles would be advantageous.
• Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to foster trust and collaboration. 
• Strong organisational skills and an ability to meet deadlines.   
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• The ability to work autonomously and collaboratively within a team environment.
• A commitment to health and safety and the well-being of colleagues and stakeholders.
• Experience leading a diverse and geographically distributed team would be advantageous. 
• Ability to travel overnight when required.  

Me pēhea te tono - How to apply:   

To apply, please email PeopleAndCulture@ospri.co.nz with your cover letter and CV. Applications close at 4 pm Tuesday, 25 February 2025.  

Please note: Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory, and this role requires a Ministry of Justice criminal history check and pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.  

OSPRI supports a workplace of diversity, equity, and inclusion where our people feel welcomed, valued, and supported to do their best work. If you need specific support or accessibility adjustments to enable you to take part in this application process, please don't hesitate to contact us.