Operations Manager - Container Services

Team Recruitment; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A logistics recruitment agency in Christchurch is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee daily operations at a busy container services depot. The ideal candidate must have proven experience in a container services depot, strong leadership skills, and an understanding of workflow coordination. You will supervise a team of 15 to 20, ensuring operational efficiency while maintaining safety standards. This position offers significant impact on productivity and a dynamic work environment with various tasks.

Benefits

Financial stability with a leading service provider

Opportunity to lead long-serving teams

Impact on workflow and productivity

Qualifications

• Experience in container repair environment is crucial.
• Willingness to be trained for a forklift licence is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the container depot.
• Coordinate teams across various functions within the depot.
• Lead a team of 15 to 20 people to improve efficiency.

Skills

Proven experience in a container services depot

Practical knowledge of container assessment

Hands-on leadership style

Strong health and safety awareness

Ability to coordinate multiple teams

Tools

Forklift licence

Job description

Want to get out from behind the desk and still lead a team?

We are recruiting an Operations Manager for a large, established container services depot in Christchurch. This is a hands‑on leadership role suited to someone with genuine container depot experience who enjoys being on the ground and leading from the front.

The role:

You’ll oversee the day‑to‑day operation of a high‑volume container services depot, coordinating teams across yard, survey, workshop, wash and drivers. Volumes are high and priorities shift quickly, so strong communication, workflow coordination and practical decision‑making are critical. You’ll lead a team of around 15 to 20 people and play a key part in improving efficiency, maintaining safety standards and keeping containers moving through the depot without bottlenecks. Reporting to an experienced and people‑focused leader who values staff wellbeing, retention and a supportive team environment.

What you must bring:

• Proven experience in a container services depot or container repair environment
• Practical knowledge of container assessment, repair and yard operations
• A hands‑on leadership style and willingness to work alongside the team
• Strong health and safety awareness in an industrial setting
• Ability to coordinate multiple teams and manage workflow under pressure
• Forklift licence or willingness to be trained
• Experience in shipping, freight forwarding or transport management alone will not be sufficient.

What's in it for you?

• Join New Zealand’s largest container depot service provider, offering genuine financial stability
• Lead long‑serving teams with strong loyalty and low turnover
• Make a real impact by improving workflow, productivity and day‑to‑day efficiency
• Enjoy variety in your work, with no two days the same

Please submit your CV and cover letter in Microsoft Word. Alternatively, you can call Amanda on 021520643 if you have any questions.

This company is unable to assist with candidates gaining a visa or migrating to New Zealand.

Therefore only applicants that are a NZ Citizen or have permanent residency/valid work visa will be considered.

About Us

Team Recruitment has specialised in freight forwarding and logistics for over 30 years. We partner with leading freight forwarding and logistics businesses across New Zealand to connect skilled people with opportunities that fit their goals and values. Visit us at www.teamrecruitment.co.nz to learn more.