Operations Manager
About the job
- Proven leadership experience managing large teams in operations, logistics, or transport.
- Ability to plan, prioritise, and make decisions under pressure.
- Problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- A data-driven mindset with solid technology capability.
- Commitment to safety and continuous improvement.
- Candidates must be in New Zealand and have the right to work in New Zealand at the time of application.
- Pre-employment checks include drug testing, Ministry of Justice checks, and reference checking.
- Oversee daily depot operations, including rostering, bus dispatch, and compliance.
- Lead, coach, and support a team of 235 staff across driving, cleaning, and yard functions.
- Manage a fleet of more than 180 vehicles, ensuring operational readiness and efficiency.
- Drive Health, Safety & Wellbeing initiatives and ensure incidents are managed and reported promptly.
- Manage recruitment and onboarding of drivers in partnership with the People Team.
- Monitor performance data, identify trends, and implement improvements.
- Collaborate with internal teams and external contractors to deliver service excellence.
- Respond to customer queries and resolve issues in a timely manner.
- Experience in public transport or a similar large operational environment.
About the company
Ritchies Transport is a large New Zealand transport operator that runs public transit services, nationwide school bus operations, and tourism charters. It grew from a single Temuka bus in 1935 by acquiring many local bus lines, building a nationwide fleet of over 1,600 vehicles and sustaining a family-owned business for decades. Today, it operates primarily through contracts with cities for public transport, school run networks, and charter work, leveraging its extensive, multi-service fleet. The company differentiates itself by its long history, scale achieved through a series of regional acquisitions, and, since 2021, ownership by KKR with the Ritchie family retaining a stake to preserve continuity and focus on long-term infrastructure and greener transport solutions. The goal is to support New Zealand’s public transport network while accelerating the transition to greener transportation options.
Company Size
51-200
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Christchurch, New Zealand
Founded
1935
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Ritchies opened Māngere depots in 2025, supporting 102 electric buses and 250 staff.
- Auckland Transport said 175 new electric buses join west and south Auckland routes by 2026.
- Ritchies appointed Scott Thorne CEO on 17 August 2026, restoring operational leadership.
What critics are saying
- KKR's unresolved sale process creates strategic drift after Michele Kernahan's August 2026 exit.
- Auckland driver assaults and Whangārei rock-throwing incidents expose daily safety and reputational damage.
- Failing Auckland's electrification rollout would wreck AT trust and end future contract wins.
What makes Ritchies Transport unique
- Ritchies runs New Zealand's largest bus network, spanning urban, school, charter, and tourism.
- Auckland Transport's 2025 nine-year, $1.068 billion contract makes Ritchies a dominant urban operator.
- Zenobē depots and GIRO HASTUS give Ritchies integrated electrification and scheduling capability.
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Benefits
- Training Programs
- Professional Development Budget