Operations Manager

Sheffield Group; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading tourism operator in Hanmer Springs is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee daily operations across multiple departments. This hands-on role requires strong leadership and communication skills, with a commitment to Health and Safety. You'll be part of a passionate team in a stunning alpine setting, making a real impact while enjoying a competitive salary and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Staff benefits package

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven operational leadership experience in a complex setting.
• Strong organisational and communication skills required.
• Experience managing diverse teams and budgets.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support department managers and their teams.
• Manage Health & Safety systems and compliance.
• Contribute to strategic planning and continuous improvement.

Skills

Operational leadership experience

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Customer-focused approach

Budget management

Health and Safety focus

Job description

Sheffield - Leaders for over 60 years. Est. 1961

NZ Tourism Awards Employer of Choice finalist 2023, 2024 and 2025

Love the outdoors? Live the lifestyle dream in Hanmer Springs

Hands-on leadership role

Base Salary + Benefits Package

Hanmer Springs, Canterbury Based

The Role

As Operations Manager, you’ll be at the heart of one of New Zealand’s most iconic attractions, leading the day-to-day running of our complex to ensure every guest experience is exceptional. This is a hands-on, high-impact leadership role where no two days are the same.

You’ll oversee multiple departments - including Lifeguards, Maintenance, Customer Service, Retail Operations, and Cleaning - and manage up to 110 staff during peak season. You’ll need to juggle competing demands, make confident decisions under pressure, and bring out the best in your team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support department managers and their teams
• Oversee maintenance, cleanliness, and presentation of facilities
• Manage Health & Safety systems and compliance
• Ensure smooth operations across entry, retail, and customer service
• Coordinate contractors and service providers
• Drive staff development, rostering, and performance management
• Contribute to strategic planning and continuous improvement

You’ll typically work a five-day week, but flexibility is essential - you’ll need to be available to support the team outside of standard hours when urgent or important matters arise.

For this reason, living within the village (or within a 15-30 minute drive) is essential.

About You

You’re a natural leader with a passion for people and operations. You thrive in fast-paced environments and bring a proactive, solutions-focused mindset. You’re calm under pressure, quick to make decisions and confident managing a large, diverse team.

You’ll bring:

• Proven operational leadership experience, ensuring efficient operating systems in a complex operational setting
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• A collaborative, customer-focused approach
• Experience managing budgets and teams
• Experience engaging with a wide range of people, including staff, customers, contractors, and stakeholders.
• A strong focus on health and Safety.

About the Company:

Owned by the Hurunui District Council and located in the picturesque village of Hanmer Springs just 90 minutes north of Christchurch, the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa has been operating commercially since 1970. The thermal waters date back thousands of years, and the first building was a changing shed built on this site in 1871.

The facilities include a range of 22 outdoor thermal pools including new cascades, relaxing rock pools, soothing sulphur pools, an array of water jets and bubbles – at a range of temperatures. It also has a luxurious day spa with a range of treatments, private pools, sauna and steam rooms. It is a great day out for the family with New Zealand’s largest aquatic thrill ride, Conical Thrill, an activity pool, lap pool, lazy river, water slides, and garden picnic areas.

This is a rare opportunity to take on a pivotal leadership role in one of New Zealand’s most beloved destinations. You’ll be part of a passionate team, working in a stunning alpine setting that offers a lifestyle many dream of. Alongside the chance to make a real impact, you’ll enjoy a competitive salary, a staff benefits package, and ongoing professional development. Whether you're looking to grow your career or embrace a unique lifestyle, this role offers the best of both worlds.

To apply in strict confidence now, click ‘Apply for this job’ or email your cover letter and CV to [e-mail] quoting 9068SIsk.