Senior Adviser Operations

About the role

Biosecurity New Zealand is looking for a Senior Adviser Operations to lead the delivery of the National Wilding Conifer Control Programme. Based in Christchurch (Burnside), you will coordinate operational work, manage partner relationships and ensure safety and effectiveness across the programme.

Key responsibilities

• Establish and maintain relationships with partner organisations and stakeholders.
• Develop and implement operational systems, policies and procedures.
• Coordinate operational planning with regional councils and programme partners.
• Lead resolution of operational issues and embed health & safety practices.
• Support the creation of Good Practice Guidelines and strategic planning frameworks.
• Monitor, evaluate and continuously improve the work programme.
• Provide technical support and share learnings across pest‑management programmes.
• Assist the Team Manager with analysis, reporting and collaborative delivery.

Required profile

• Proven experience in pest management, forestry operations or a related field.
• Strong operational planning and coordination abilities with a focus on safety.
• Excellent relationship‑building skills across government, iwi, industry and community groups.
• Strategic thinking, sound judgement and the ability to prioritise long‑term control work.
• Experience resolving complex operational issues and driving continuous improvement.
• Familiarity with health and safety legislation and field‑operation best practice.
• Effective written and verbal communication with influence and collaboration skills.
• Experience in project or programme delivery, including monitoring, reporting and risk management.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary range of $100,934 – $118,005 NZD per year.
• Opportunity to contribute to a high‑profile national environmental programme.
• Collaborative work environment with regular travel and stakeholder engagement.