Wairarapa Mill - Production Manager

VACANCY

Production Manager

Join a leading New Zealand manufacturing business and play a pivotal role in driving operational excellence, safety, and team performance.

We are seeking an experienced and people-focused Production Manager to lead the day‑to‑day operations of our Mill. This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and high‑quality production that meets customer expectations and supports our operational goals.

About the Role

As Production Manager, you will oversee all aspects of mill production, ensuring products are manufactured safely, on time, to specification, and with optimal cost efficiency. Your leadership will be central in developing a high‑performing, engaged, and safety‑focused production team.

You will work closely with the General Manager Mill and collaborate with key support functions such as Maintenance, HR, HSE, Quality, Sales, and Administration to ensure the smooth running of operations.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & People Development

• Lead and support a team of production supervisors, Leading Hands, and operators.


• Build a strong performance culture through coaching, training, and development.


• Manage employee performance, capability, and staffing levels in line with business needs.


• Foster a collaborative, safe, and positive team environment.

Production Planning & Operations Management

• Manage day‑to‑day production activities to maximise productivity and minimise downtime.


• Contribute to annual production budgets and business plans.


• Monitor, report, and communicate production performance and variances.


• Ensure resources, staffing, and materials effectively meet production requirements.

Health, Safety & Environmental Leadership

• Champion a proactive health & safety culture in line with legislation and company policies.


• Ensure all production activities comply with HSE and environmental standards.


• Respond promptly to high‑risk situations and lead/assist in incident investigations.

Quality & Customer Specifications

• Ensure all products meet or exceed customer specifications and certification standards.


• Oversee adherence to quality systems, testing procedures, and audit requirements.


• Minimise waste, rework, and non‑compliance.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to enhance people, plant, and processes.


• Evaluate improvement initiatives and make recommendations for positive change.


• Support capital expenditure and operational improvement projects.

About You

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• Proven leadership experience in a production, manufacturing, or industrial environment.


• Strong knowledge of production processes, risk management, and continuous improvement.


• A track record of achieving performance targets in safety, quality, and productivity.


• Excellent communication, problem‑solving, and decision‑making capabilities.


• Confidence in working with cross‑functional teams and influencing outcomes.


• A commitment to developing people and building a strong safety culture.

Why Join Us?

• Lead a key operational function with significant scope to make an impact.


• Work within an organisation committed to safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement.


• Enjoy a supportive leadership team and strong corporate support functions.


• Competitive remuneration and development opportunities.

How to Apply

If you are a motivated leader passionate about driving safe and efficient production, we would love to hear from you.

with your CV and cover letter, or contact Kristy Hansen, People & Culture Advisor on 027 388 0833 or email [email protected].

Closing Date: Friday, 20 March 2026