Commercial Business Partner – Operations

About the role

Iplex Pipelines NZ is seeking a commercially‑focused Manufacturing Business Partner to join its team in Palmerston North or Christchurch. The role partners closely with plant and operational leaders to deliver financial insights, improve performance and support strategic decision‑making across the manufacturing sites.

Key responsibilities

• Partner with plant and operational leaders to provide financial guidance and commercial support.
• Deliver timely and accurate monthly reporting, forecasting and variance analysis.
• Support budgeting and planning processes for manufacturing operations.
• Analyse manufacturing performance, including labour, overheads, production costs and inventory.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, profitability and cost control.
• Support capital‑expenditure analysis and business‑case development.
• Ensure strong financial controls, process compliance and data integrity.
• Drive continuous‑improvement initiatives across systems, reporting and processes.

Required profile

• CA/CPA qualification with relevant tertiary education.
• 5+ years’ experience in commercial finance, manufacturing finance or business‑partnering roles.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, cost accounting and inventory management.
• Experience in large or complex business environments.
• Advanced analytical and problem‑solving skills with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement abilities.
• Willingness to travel fortnightly if based in Christchurch.

Required skills

• SAP
• ERP systems
• Financial reporting tools

What we offer

• A supportive and collaborative team within a leading New Zealand infrastructure and manufacturing business.
• Opportunities to influence operational outcomes and drive continuous improvement.
• Professional growth in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.