Operational Manager South at ECL Group in Christchurch

Operational Manager South

Location: Christchurch

Who are we?

At ECL Group, we enable the connections that keep New Zealand moving.

As New Zealand's oldest, most trusted infrastructure services business, we've been supporting New Zealand's critical infrastructure since 1957. With over 250 employees across 19 locations, we install, maintain, protect and repair the equipment and systems that keep the country connected. Our customers include some of New Zealand's most recognised brands, including Z Energy, BP, Exxon Mobil, Foodstuffs, Woolworths, G.A.S. and NZ Post.

From fuel infrastructure and technology solutions to EV charging networks and critical operational systems, we work behind the scenes to keep businesses and communities running every day.

What's so exciting about this role?

This is a rare opportunity to join ECL in a Senior Operational Leadership role with responsibility for a portfolio of depots across Wellington and Southern regions.

As Operational Manager, you'll be accountable for transforming customer demand into safe, productive, profitable and sustainable delivery outcomes. You'll lead and develop a team of Service Managers, build strong customer relationships, and drive operational excellence across multiple locations and service lines.

Working closely with the General Manager Operations and key business leaders, you'll ensure your depots consistently deliver exceptional customer outcomes while achieving productivity, revenue, EBITDA, safety and engagement targets.

Key Responsibilities

As Operational Manager, you will:

• Lead, coach and develop Service Managers to build high-performing, engaged teams.
  
• Drive depot productivity, operational performance and delivery excellence across multiple locations.
  
• Support revenue growth and profitability by ensuring customer demand is converted into efficient and profitable work.
  
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers and stakeholders.
  
• Ensure consistent delivery standards across Fuels, Technology and eMobility services.
  
• Monitor operational performance, identify risks and implement practical improvement initiatives.
  
• Work collaboratively with Projects, Scheduling, Supply Chain, Finance, Commercial and Support Teams to achieve business objectives.
  
• Champion ECL's safety culture and ensure compliance with company, customer and legislative requirements.
  
• Support workforce planning, recruitment, succession planning and capability development across your region.
  
• Contribute to business strategy, operational improvement initiatives and the ongoing growth of ECL.

About You

We're looking for a commercially minded operational leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys leading through people.

To be successful in this role, you'll bring:

• Significant experience leading operational teams across multiple locations.
  
• Proven success managing productivity, customer service, financial performance and operational outcomes.
  
• Strong leadership capability with experience coaching and developing people leaders.
  
• Excellent commercial acumen, including budget management, cost control and revenue growth.
  
• Experience working closely with customers and building trusted long-term relationships.
  
• A strong understanding of service delivery, workforce planning, scheduling and operational performance management.
  
• Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
  
• The ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational leadership.
  
• A collaborative approach and commitment to achieving results through teamwork.

Experience within infrastructure, technical services, engineering, utilities, field services or related industries will be highly regarded. Relevant tertiary qualifications are advantageous but not essential.

Why Join ECL?

At ECL, you'll join a business with a strong reputation, ambitious growth plans, and a genuine commitment to developing its people.

In return, we offer:

• A senior leadership role with significant influence across the business.
  
• The opportunity to lead multiple depots and drive meaningful operational improvements.
  
• Career development opportunities within a growing national organisation.
  
• The chance to work with some of New Zealand's most recognised brands.
  
• A collaborative leadership team that supports innovation and continuous improvement.
  
• A values-driven culture focused on safety, customer success and operational excellence.

Our Values

At ECL, our values guide everything we do:

Always Safe
One Team
Customer Driven
Empowered to Think New
Rock Solid Delivery

If you're an experienced operational leader who can build high-performing teams, strengthen customer relationships, and deliver outstanding business results, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now and help lead the teams that keep New Zealand connected.