Experience Manager at Real Journeys

Apply for the Experience Manager position at Real Journeys in Te Anau, S, NZ. This full‑time on‑site role offers great opportunities for career growth and lets you lead one of New Zealand’s most iconic tourism experiences in the heart of Fiordland. RealNZ is looking for an inspiring and experienced Experience Manager to lead our Doubtful Sound operations and shape the delivery of one of Aotearoa’s most unforgettable visitor experiences, leading exceptional people, driving operational excellence, and creating moments that leave a lasting impression on every guest. As Experience Manager you will have overall responsibility for delivering the Manapouri and Doubtful Sound experiences, leading a team of operational leaders, ensuring staff engagement, safe and efficient operations, and exceptional guest service. You will work closely with other business teams, continuously improve the guest journey, enhance operational performance, and support the long‑term success of these iconic experiences. Responsibilities Lead and develop high‑performing teams across the Manapouri and Doubtful Sound operations. Create a culture that reflects RealNZ’s values and delivers consistently outstanding guest experiences. Ensure safe, compliant, and efficient day‑to‑day operations across vessels, facilities, and guest touchpoints. Partner with Asset Management to maintain operational readiness of vessels and infrastructure. Drive continuous improvement by reviewing guest feedback, identifying opportunities, and implementing enhancements. Work closely with culinary, development, sales, and marketing teams to evolve our food & beverage offering and maximise commercial opportunities. Manage operational budgets and financial performance while maintaining exceptional guest experiences. Champion health, safety, environmental responsibility, and emergency preparedness across the operation. Coach and mentor leaders to build capability, succession, and a high‑performance culture. Qualifications 10+ years’ leadership experience within tourism, marine, hospitality, or another guest‑focused operational environment. Proven success leading large, complex operational teams with multiple stakeholders. A passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences and creating memorable moments. Strong commercial acumen, with experience managing budgets and driving business performance. Demonstrated ability to coach, develop, and inspire high‑performing teams. Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills. Experience leading health & safety, operational risk, and continuous improvement initiatives. Knowledge of Fiordland operations or New Zealand National Park environments will be highly regarded. Benefits Lead one of New Zealand’s most iconic tourism experiences and make a genuine impact on the future of the operation. Enjoy incredible staff benefits, including discounted access to RealNZ experiences for you and your friends—from Milford and Doubtful Sound to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, Walter Peak, and Rakiura. Medical insurance cover. Ongoing leadership development and opportunities to grow your career within one of New Zealand’s leading tourism businesses. Real people, real places, real experiences. Commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion RealNZ is committed to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Guided by our values of Pono (Keep it real) and He waka eke noa (We’re all in this together), we welcome people from all backgrounds and celebrate the unique perspectives that make our team stronger. Job posted on 02 Jul 2026, closes on 22 Jul 2026 at 17:00. Locations: Doubtful Sound, Manapouri, Te Anau, Wanaka. #J-18808-Ljbffr