Napier City Council is excited to launch a newly created leadership role as part of our recent organisational redesign. The Manager, Operations & Transport will play a pivotal role in modernising and transforming how we deliver essential city services through technology, improved systems, and streamlined processes. This is a unique fixed term opportunity to lead a strategic change programme that spans city operations and transport, driving innovation, efficiency, and continuous improvement across multiple service areas.

In this role, you will develop and deliver phased implementation plans for future-fit service models, balancing in-house, outsourced, and alliance-based approaches to optimise organisational performance and deliver outcomes that benefit the ratepayers and residents of Napier. You will lead by example, fostering a high-performing, collaborative team culture while building strong relationships with internal teams, stakeholders, and external partners.

We are looking for an experienced operational leader with a proven track record in managing complex transitions, delivering technology-enabled improvements, and implementing innovative solutions in public services or similar sectors. This is your chance to make a lasting impact on Napier’s city services and shape the way our community experiences them.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Lead in a newly created role as part of Napier City Council’s organisational redesign, shaping the future of city operations and transport in this two year fixed term role.
• Drive the implementation of future-fit service models, balancing in-house, outsourced, and alliance approaches.
• Deliver process and technology improvements to enhance efficiency, performance, and service delivery.
• Build and foster a high-performing, collaborative team culture, empowering your people to achieve their best.
• Develop strong relationships with internal teams, stakeholders, and external partners to ensure smooth adoption of change initiatives.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• Proven leader with 8–10 years’ experience managing complex operational transitions and large-scale change programmes, ideally in local government, public services, or similar sectors.
• Tertiary qualification in Business Administration, Management, Urban Planning, Transportation, or a related field, or equivalent proven experience.
• Strong understanding of operations and transport functions, including waste management, cleaning, parks & reserves, or related city services.
• Demonstrated success in implementing technology-driven improvements and modernising processes and systems.
• Exceptional people leadership skills, with the ability to build, empower, and develop high-performing teams and lead leaders while managing diverse stakeholders effectively.

Ngā painga mōhou - What we Offer

• Discounted Health Insurance Work Scheme + Eye Test Subsidy
• Retailer Discounts + Study assistance
• Employee Assistance Program (OCP)
• Quarterly values awards + Birthday vouchers + Social club
• Free annual flu vaccinations
• Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga + NCC Kapa Haka
• Te Reo Māori language classes

This is a two-year fixed term opportunity working full time, 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday. You will be based in Napier.

The annual salary package for this role is $168,000-$197,800 (including KiwiSaver), with the final offer dependant on your skills and experience.

Applications for this role close on 20 October, however due to the highly competitive employment market we will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person. Please do not delay in making your application.

He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC

At Napier City Council, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and work to make our hiring process fair and accessible. If you need any support or adjustments during your application or interview, let us know—we’re happy to help!

Our success is grounded in strong partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi, supported by our Māori Partnerships team, Te Waka Rangapū, which builds cultural capability through education and training.

Before you join, you’ll need to complete pre-employment checks (including drug testing, with some roles requiring health screening). As an NCC employee, you may also be called on to support Civil Defence emergencies when our community needs us most.

Please visit Napier City Council Careers website to see full job description

Job Description – Manager Operations & Transport