Automation Project Lead - Operations

Port of Tauranga is New Zealand’s largest and most efficient port, connecting New Zealand to the world. As we embark on one of the most significant terminal transformation programmes in our history, we are seeking an experienced Automation Project Lead – Operations to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of container terminal operations. The Opportunity This is a unique opportunity to lead the operational readiness and successful integration of automation, advanced operating technologies, and new operating models into our container terminal environment. Working at the intersection of project delivery and terminal operations, you will ensure business requirements, operational processes, workforce capability, and customer impacts are fully understood and successfully embedded into the business. As Port of Tauranga transitions towards a future operating model incorporating automation and Automated Stacking Cranes (ASC), you will provide operational leadership and subject matter expertise across multiple transformation initiatives, helping deliver safe, efficient and sustainable operational outcomes. What You’ll Be Doing You will: Lead the operational workstream for key terminal transformation projects from concept through to implementation and operational handover. Champion future-state operating models that enhance productivity, safety, reliability and customer service. Define and represent operational requirements throughout project design and delivery. Drive business readiness activities, ensuring people, systems, training and processes are prepared for successful implementation. Work closely with project, technology and operational teams to develop practical and sustainable solutions. Provide operational leadership during testing, commissioning and go-live activities. Develop performance measures and success criteria for transformation initiatives. Build strong relationships across operational, technical and leadership teams to achieve successful project outcomes. Support continuous improvement through the adoption of automation, technology and innovative operational practices. What We’re Looking For To succeed in this role, you’ll bring: Tertiary qualification in business, logistics, supply chain, engineering, project management or a related discipline, or equivalent level work experience. Significant operational leadership experience within a container terminal environment. Strong knowledge of container terminal operations and operational planning. Demonstrated experience delivering large-scale business, technology, automation or operational transformation projects. Experience translating operational requirements into technology, system and process solutions. Exceptional stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, with the ability to work effectively across operational, technical and senior leadership groups. Project management, change management or continuous improvement qualifications such as PMP, PRINCE2, Prosci, Lean or Six Sigma would be advantageous #J-18808-Ljbffr