Jobs and Skills Hub Operations Manager - Hawkes Bay
Napier, NZ
Permanent full-time position available
Make a difference for people, employers and communities
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced and motivated people leader to join the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) as Operations Manager for the Jobs and Skills Hub in Hawke's Bay.
About the role | Mō te tūnga
The Jobs and Skills Hubs are part of MSD’s employment-focused services, supporting the construction and infrastructure sector to meet workforce demand. We work alongside large construction and infrastructure projects to connect the right people with the right opportunities at the right time. Whether supporting someone into their first job or helping them take the next step, we are focused on creating sustainable employment outcomes for local communities.
As Operations Manager, you will lead a high-performing team to deliver positive employment outcomes while supporting workforce needs across the region. You will foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement, ensuring your team delivers exceptional service to job seekers, employers and stakeholders.
What you'll be doing:
- Leading and developing a high-performing team that is customer-focused, proactive and aligned with MSD's values.
- Driving operational excellence, innovation and continuous improvement across Hub activities.
- Building strong partnerships with employers, industry groups, iwi, community organisations and government agencies.
- Identifying workforce opportunities and facilitating solutions that support sustainable employment outcomes.
- Coaching, mentoring and empowering team members to achieve results and grow professionally.
- Supporting MSD's commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi through meaningful engagement and partnership with Māori.
- Establishing and maintaining strong local networks that create pathways to employment, training and up-skilling opportunities.
What you bring | Ōu pūmanawatanga
- Sound understanding of labour market challenges and opportunities for both employers and job seekers.
- Experience leading people and managing operational delivery in a complex environment.
- Proven success coaching, developing and motivating teams to achieve results.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills, including experience working across government, industry and community sectors.
- The ability to influence and navigate complex environments while building credibility and trust.
- Knowledge and application of Tikanga Māori and Mātauranga Māori.
- A strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its principles and how these can be applied in practice.
- Excellent communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Ability to meet MSD's pre-employment screening requirements, including satisfactory Police vetting.
Why join us?
This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference by connecting people with meaningful employment and supporting the growth of New Zealand's construction and infrastructure workforce. You'll lead a dedicated team, build strong community partnerships, and contribute to better outcomes for individuals, whānau, employers and the wider region.
Position Description | He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga
Salary | Utu-ā-tau: $122,381.00 - $152,296.00
Applications close | Ka kati ngā tono hei te: Sunday 30th August 2026
How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono
Before you submit your application, please take a moment to review our guidance to understand how AI can best support your application. Candidate Guidance - Responsible AI use in recruitment
To apply, click the 'Apply Now' button to upload your CV, cover letter and complete the online application form.
Note: Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process. Please highlight how your skills and experience relate to the key responsibilities listed in the position description and job advertisement.
All applications must be made online. If this is not possible or if you have any queries, please contact us at jobs@msd.govt.nz
Internal MSD Employees – please apply through your myHR portal at work. This will ensure that your myHR employee profile is visible as internal candidate.
Joining us | Ko te hono mai
Joining MSD means being part of a whānau that celebrates the diversity each individual represents.
We show manaaki, we care about the wellbeing and success of people and want everyone to thrive and be who they are in a supportive and inclusive working environment. We work together to make a difference for communities while doing the right thing with integrity. You can find out more about our values here.
If you have any support or accessibility requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.
