Experience Manager – Manapouri & Doubtful Sound

About the role

RealNZ is seeking an experienced Experience Manager to lead its Manapouri and Doubtful Sound operations in Fiordland, New Zealand. The role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on operational oversight to ensure world‑class guest experiences across vessels, facilities and touch‑points.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop high‑performing teams across the Manapouri and Doubtful Sound experiences.
• Maintain a culture aligned with RealNZ’s values and deliver consistently outstanding guest service.
• Ensure safe, compliant and efficient day‑to‑day operations of vessels, infrastructure and guest areas.
• Partner with Asset Management to keep vessels and facilities operationally ready.
• Drive continuous improvement by analysing guest feedback and implementing enhancements.
• Collaborate with culinary, development, sales and marketing teams to evolve food & beverage offerings and maximise commercial opportunities.
• Manage operational budgets and financial performance while preserving exceptional guest experiences.
• Champion health, safety, environmental responsibility and emergency preparedness.
• Coach and mentor leaders to build capability, succession and a high‑performance culture.

Required profile

• 10+ years of leadership experience in tourism, marine, hospitality or a similar guest‑focused environment.
• Proven ability to lead large, complex operational teams with multiple stakeholders.
• Strong commercial acumen and experience managing budgets and driving performance.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.
• Experience leading health & safety, operational risk and continuous‑improvement initiatives.
• Knowledge of Fiordland or New Zealand National Park environments is a plus.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead one of New Zealand’s most iconic tourism experiences.
• Ability to make a genuine impact on the future of the operation.
• Join a business that values its people and cares about sustainable tourism.