Supply Chain & Commercial Operations Specialist

Who are we?

Zespri is more than simply the world's single-largest marketer of kiwifruit. We like to think of ourselves as fruit on a mission and as rebels with a cause: to help people, communities and the environment around the world thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit. We are proudly the world's largest marketer of kiwifruit, selling kiwifruit in more than 50 countries. We work with around 2,800 New Zealand and 1,500 international growers and post-harvest companies to source the best-quality Zespri Kiwifruit which we supply through our distribution partners to wholesale and retail customers. We are one of New Zealand's best-known international brands, dedicated to creating sustainable long-term value for growers.

What's the role?

We are looking for a Supply Chain & Commercial Operations Specialist to join our Supply Chain team at Zespri Fresh Produce Italy. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and ambitious individual to gain broad exposure across supply chain, procurement and operations, supporting key projects and initiatives while also taking a hands-on role in daily execution.

Initially, the position will require a strong operational focus, with increasing involvement in strategic initiatives over time. As part of a small, agile business unit, the successful candidate will have a high degree of ownership, visibility, and impact, making this an ideal opportunity to accelerate learning and career progression.

Reporting to the Head of Supply Chain, this newly created opportunity offers an opportunity to gain broad experience with a clear growth path from operational execution to strategic involvement. The fast learning curve provides significant opportunities for professional development and the chance to work on diverse projects, gaining a 360-degree view of supply chain operations and engaging with cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head of Supply Chain in managing projects, procurement, and initiatives across the entire supply chain organisation.
• Contribute to operations and end-to-end supply chain processes, ensuring smooth execution and continuous improvement.
• Engage in both strategic planning and hands-on operational support, with an increasing focus on high-impact projects over time.
• Collaborate with different teams to optimize workflows and identify efficiency opportunities.
• Actively participate in key cross-functional projects, gaining exposure to various business functions.
• Provide analytical support and insights to enhance decision-making processes.
• Develop a deep understanding of supply chain dynamics, supporting both short-term execution and long-term strategic initiatives.

Who are you?

The role is designed for someone eager to grow, who thrives in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, and enjoys working on diverse and cross-functional tasks. Our ideal candidate will have:

• 3-5 years of post-qualification experience (PQE) in supply chain, logistics, or operations, ideally in a hybrid role combining strategic, commercial and operational responsibilities.
• Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a proactive mindset.
• Ambition to grow, with a strong motivation to take on increasing responsibilities and drive impact.
• A passion for working in a fast-moving, heterogeneous environment, with the ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and a structured approach to work.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a small, highly visible business unit.
• Fluency in both Italian and English.

Why Zespri?

Our people are what makes our culture so irresistible and uniquely Zespri. We are a passionate and mighty team of 850+ employees in 23 different locations globally. Working at Zespri is an opportunity to join a fast-paced, culture-driven environment unlike any other. We want people who share our values of being personally connected, results-driven, and committed to guardianship. Join us in shaping our future and be part of a truly unique organisation.

• Competitive overall remuneration package, including a Short-Term Incentive scheme opportunity.
• FlexWELL flexible work ethos; WFH & the office.
• Additional paid annual leave day per year (Zespri Day).
• Additional paid volunteer day to volunteer within your community (Volunteer Time).
• Global Life and Permanent Disability Insurance.
• Group Medical Insurance benefits.

If you’re ready to take on a dynamic role where you can grow, contribute, and make an impact, apply now and join us on this journey! Applications close 30 April 2025.

At Zespri, we understand the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences, and a fair hiring process is the first step to getting there. We want to attract a diverse range of people and encourage everyone from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Please let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments to take part in the recruitment and selection process by reaching out to our Talent Acquisition team via email at careers@zespri.com.