Livestock Procurement & Abattoir Optimisation Manager

About the role

The Livestock Procurement & Abattoir Optimisation Manager is responsible for ensuring a continuous supply of beef, lamb, and pork to Woolworths stores across New Zealand. Based at the Favona Road support office in Auckland, you will lead a team of livestock buyers and work closely with traders and abattoir partners to maximise yield, control costs and maintain product quality.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop a team of Livestock Managers covering the North and South Islands.
• Set weekly livestock procurement schedules for beef, lamb and pork.
• Drive financial KPIs such as livestock volumes, yields, pricing and profitability.
• Design and implement a continuous “paddock to plate” supply‑chain strategy.
• Optimise processes and performance across partner abattoirs.
• Collaborate with Category, Operations and Logistics teams to align supply with demand.

Required profile

• Proven experience in the livestock and/or abattoir industry.
• Strong commercial acumen with a strategic mindset.
• Demonstrated negotiation and influencing skills with internal and external stakeholders.
• Track record of leading high‑performing teams and coaching staff.
• Deep knowledge of the meat sector, including buying and abattoir operations.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for managing cross‑functional relationships.

Required skills

What we offer

• Support from a large, diverse organisation with a culture of care.
• Opportunities to innovate and shape the supply chain for a major retailer.
• Flexible work approach and career development resources.