Operations Managers
About this role
Lead operations that keep communities moving!
Ready to lead from the front? Join Ritchies as one of two Operations Managers for our Albany or Swanson depot. You'll take ownership of daily operations, lead a large team, drive performance, and ensure safe, reliable transport services that make a difference every day.
About us
Ritchies Transport is one of New Zealand’s largest privately owned transport operators, providing bus and coach services across the country. Founded in 1935, the company has grown from a small family-run business into a major player in public transport, school bus services, and charter travel.
Ritchies operates urban bus networks in several regions, including Auckland, Queenstown, and Dunedin, as well as offering long-distance coach services and tourism transport. Known for its focus on safety, reliability, and customer service, the company plays a key role in connecting communities and supporting both daily commuters and the tourism industry.
About the role
- Oversee daily depot operations including rostering, bus dispatch, and compliance
- Lead, coach, and support a team of 235 staff across driving, cleaning, and yard functions
- Manage a fleet of 180 plus vehicles, ensuring operational readiness and efficiency
- Drive Health, Safety & Wellbeing initiatives and ensure all incidents are managed and reported promptly
- Manage recruitment and onboarding of drivers in partnership with the People Team
- Monitor performance data, identify trends, and implement improvements
- Collaborate with internal teams and external contractors to deliver service excellence
- Respond to customer queries and resolve issues in a timely manner
What you offer?
You are a confident, practical leader who thrives in a fast-paced operational environment and can lead at scale.
You bring:
- Proven leadership experience managing large teams in operations, logistics, or transport
- Ability to plan, prioritise, and make decisions under pressure
- Problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- A data-driven mindset with solid tech capability
- A commitment to safety and continuous improvement
Desirable: Experience in public transport or a similar large operational environment.
What we offer?
At Ritchies, we’re passionate about connecting communities and delivering safe, reliable transport.
You’ll enjoy:
- A leadership role where you can make a real and visible impact
- Variety, challenge and the opportunity to solve problems every day
- Ongoing support from experienced leaders and teams across the business
- Career progression opportunities within a large and established organisation
- Competitive salary package
- Stable employment within an essential community service
- A supportive team environment focused on safety and wellbeing
- Access to our Employment Assistance Programme (EAP)
Ready to apply?
As we are a health and safety conscious employer, our pre-employment checks include drug testing, Ministry of Justice checks and reference checking.
Candidates for this position must be in New Zealand and have the right to work in New Zealand at the time of application.
Does this sound like you? Click apply and hop onboard with us!
Company at a glance
Ritchies is one of New Zealand’s most successful urban and charter transport operators – a proven and dependable service provider with a strong performance history. Established in 1935 in the small South Island town of Temuka, Ritchies has grown to become the second-largest passenger transport company in New Zealand, with a fleet of more than 1,700 vehicles and over 2,200 employees.
Top Benefits
- Career Growth Opportunities
- Stable Senior Leadership Role
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