Summary: Mainstream is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to provide visible leadership across operational, safety, and customer delivery functions at their Nelson branch, leading people and driving efficient operations. Highlights: 1. Lead operations, safety, and customer delivery functions. 2. Opportunity to grow and shape transport services. 3. Supportive, safety-first team environment. At Mainstream, we are a customer-focused logistics business and a great place to work, learn, and build a long-term career. We move, manage, and store freight across New Zealand, backed by a strong safety-first culture, modern fleet, and a supportive national network. We’re looking for an experienced Operations Manager to provide visible leadership across all operational, safety, and customer delivery functions at our Nelson branch. This is a hands-on leadership role where you’ll lead people, manage performance, and build strong customer relationships while driving safe, efficient, and profitable operations. Why this role matters: You’ll be the operational leader for Nelson, responsible for ensuring freight moves safely, efficiently, and on schedule. Your leadership will drive operational performance across linehaul, metro, and cross-dock operations while maintaining strong relationships with customers and internal teams. Your ability to lead people, manage complex freight operations, and deliver consistent service performance will directly impact the success of the Nelson branch and the wider Mainstream network. Key Responsibilities: - Lead day-to-day Nelson transport operations across two sites, including linehaul, metro, and cross-dock activities - Ensure reliable freight handling, service delivery, and on-time departures across the Nelson network. - Lead, coach, and develop operational managers, supervisors, and driver teams. - Oversee staff rostering, dispatch planning, and fleet utilisation to maximise operational efficiency. - Maintain compliance with Health, Safety, Quality, and Environmental standards. - Monitor operational KPIs, service levels, and performance metrics. - Identify opportunities for operational improvement and drive continuous improvement initiatives. - Manage operational budgets, resources, and cost control. - Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, contractors, and internal teams. - Provide visible leadership and effective escalation management for operational challenges. Skills & Experience: - 3-5 years’ experience in freight, transport or branch operations management. - Proven experience managing large transport, freight forwarding, freight handling, or cross-dock operations. - Strong knowledge of New Zealand domestic transport operations and freight networks. - Proven leadership experience managing operational teams in a fast-paced freight environment. - Experience managing operational performance, KPIs, and budgets. - Customer-focused with strong relationship and stakeholder management skills. - Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and organisational abilities. - Proficient with transport management systems and Microsoft Office. What we offer: - A hands-on leadership role with operational and commercial accountability. - Opportunity to grow and shape Nelson transport services. - Supportive, safety-first team environment. - Competitive remuneration and career development opportunities. If you’re ready to lead Mainstream’s Nelson transport operations and make a real impact, we want to hear from you Applicants must be eligible to live and work in New Zealand to be considered.
Trademe · HR
Trademe · HR
