Operations Manager

Location: Whanganui, NZ About Veolia Veolia Australia & New Zealand is the only global company to provide a full range of environmental services in the fields of water, waste management and energy solutions. With the global expertise gained from serving the environment for more than 170 years, Veolia operates in more than 57 countries around the world, with well over a hundred sites and approximately employees in Australia & New Zealand. The Opportunity Lead. Inspire. Deliver. Are you an experienced operations leader ready to make a real difference in the communities you serve? Veolia New Zealand is looking for a dynamic and driven Operations Manager to lead our Whanganui / South Taranaki contract – a critical role at the heart of essential water and wastewater services for the region. This is your opportunity to join a global environmental services leader and take ownership of a high‑impact contract, leading a talented team while delivering outstanding outcomes for our clients, communities, and the environment. What’s on offer Competitive remuneration A great team focused working environment Opportunities for professional growth and development Stable employment with a reputable, world‑leading, 3‑Waters Network focused organisation Meaningful work that contributes to the well‑being of our community and keeps the cogs of society turning Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) through assure which covers mental health, nutrition, financial, legal, coaching and career transition support What you’ll be responsible for Report to the Regional Lead and take ownership of the end‑to‑end operational management and service delivery of our Whanganui / South Taranaki water and wastewater contract Lead a capable team, drive a culture of continuous improvement and ensure all services are delivered safely, efficiently and in line with contractual KPIs and Veolia’s SHEQ standards Blend strategic thinking with day‑to‑day operational delivery managing water and wastewater network operations, building strong client relationships, developing your team, and ensuring commercial and compliance outcomes are consistently achieved Promote the Veolia brand across the region, collaborate with councils, water service entities, and community stakeholders to deliver meaningful environmental and community outcomes Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing operations team; foster a culture of open communication, inclusivity, innovation and continuous improvement; identify and support future leaders within the business Oversee all Requests for Service (RFS) from initiation through to completion, ensure operators are logging jobs live and on time, manage stock levels, plant and equipment utilisation, and day‑to‑day operational requirements Support CCTV and high‑pressure water jetting operations, including data management via Infoasset, and collaborate with Technical, Capital and Projects teams to meet operational needs Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, councils and community stakeholders, provide regular performance updates and assist with client reporting Champion a proactive H&S culture, lead ASIs, Rivos and toolbox meetings, conduct regular audits and performance reviews to ensure regulatory and contractual compliance, adhere to Veolia’s SHEQ policies and relevant ISO and legislation Drive profitability, sustainability and compliance outcomes across the contract, review resource and equipment utilisation to ensure operational efficiency What you’ll need to be successful Proven management experience, ideally in water and wastewater infrastructure Level 4 National Certificate or equivalent (Level 5 advantageous) Strong communication, commercial and problem‑solving skills Current Class 2 driver’s licence Willingness to participate in an after‑hours on‑call roster Understanding of ISO, ISO and NZ Health and Safety legislation A natural leader who leads by example and brings out the best in those around them A calm and composed approach under pressure with the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances High level of personal integrity and confidence in your own judgement Self‑motivated and enthusiastic with a genuine commitment to delivering quality outcomes for your team, clients and community Why Veolia? At Veolia Australia and New Zealand, you’ll join a team of passionate innovators and good humans. Our environmental solutions help customers preserve and renew our natural resources, creating a better future for our planet. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to build your career and resource the world. Application note To apply for this vacancy you MUST be a New Zealand citizen, resident, or have already secured the right to work in New Zealand and therefore hold a valid visa. Fairness, Diversity & Inclusion At Veolia we value diversity, equality and inclusion and are committed to providing working environments where everyone is included and treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from Māori and Pasifika, Veterans, people with disability, mature age and early careers, members of the LGBTI community and people from all cultural backgrounds. #J-18808-Ljbffr