Farming Operations Manager (North)

• Lead a hands‑on team and make a real impact on daily farm operations.
• Use modern farm tools and sustainable practices to lift productivity.
• Help shape the future of our farms by driving practical improvements in a hands on role.

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

We’re looking for a motivated and practical leader to join our Farming Team as a Farming Operations Manager. In this role, you’ll provide day‑to‑day operational leadership to a dynamic team to help ensure our farming operations run smoothly, efficiently, and sustainably.

You’ll play a key part in achieving performance targets, maintaining high farming standards, and supporting productive farm systems across the sector. Your focus will be on using effective farm management tools, leading the team on the ground, and driving ongoing improvements that align with the Farming Business Strategic Plan.

You can find the position description here

The remuneration range is between $104,000 -  $114,000 depending on skillset and experience

Te hiranga o tēnei mahi: Why this role matters

The role is important because it ensures our farming operations run safely, efficiently, and sustainably across the region by providing strong leadership, managing resources well, and driving improvements. 

The Farming Operations Manager supports the long‑term productivity and environmental sustainability of Auckland Council’s farming portfolio. The role also helps maintain responsible farming practices across our regional parks, protecting natural landscapes and supporting a positive visitor experience.

Ngā kawenga matua: Key responsibilities

You will inspire and support the farming team to deliver consistently high performance by creating a strong work culture built on collaboration, engagement, and clear communication. This includes fostering a positive, high‑trust environment and maintaining effective relationships with both internal and external stakeholders through proactive, transparent communication. The role also involves managing relationships with a broad range of partners, including mana whenua, contractors, suppliers, and the local community.

Other key responsibilities include:

• Ensure the farms meet environmental and regulatory requirements — including nutrient management, pest control, and biosecurity.
• Monitor farm production, breeding, and trading to make sure productivity and sustainability goals are met.
• Turn long‑term strategies into practical annual and seasonal work plans with clear timelines, deliverables, and resource needs.
• Develop and manage farm budgets, keeping operations financially sustainable and costs on track.
• Review operational data and financial reports to spot risks, efficiencies, and opportunities to improve how things are done.

He kōrero mōu: About you

You’ll bring proven experience leading and motivating teams, building constructive relationships, and engaging effectively with a wide range of stakeholders. You excel at strategic planning, staying organised, and juggling multiple priorities with ease. Demonstrable experience managing people and resources, ideally within a political or highly complex organisation, will also be vital in this role.

A focal point of the role will be delivering large work programmes, with the ability to manage both contract and project management responsibilities, while also balancing this with a solid background in financial planning, budgeting and performance reporting.

What We’re Looking For:

• Tertiary qualification in agriculture, related agriculture business or related fields
• Minimum of 10 years’ practical experience on commercial sheep and beef farms in New Zealand, including at least 5 years managing or supervising a large farming operation.
• Competence in farm system planning, production monitoring, and the use of farm management software.
• Hands‑on knowledge of animal welfare and husbandry
• 2-3 dogs under good control management

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of. As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits.  

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!

Applications close: Friday 13th March at 12am NZDT

We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis as they come in so, please apply today to avoid disappointment!

If you have any support or access requirements, please advise us when submitting your application so we can assist you.

Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.

#workingforauckland 

As a part of Auckland Council drug and alcohol policy pre-employment checks, you will be subject to drug, alcohol and police screening.

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process