Are you enthusiastic about horticulture, tourism, and operations management?

Imagine starting your workday in a world-renowned garden paradise; an inspiring work environment that fosters growth and creativity!

Hamilton Gardens is a world-renowned destination, boasting an exquisite collection of themed gardens spanning centuries and cultures. From the tranquil Japanese Garden to the vibrant Indian Char Bagh Garden, our diverse landscapes enchant visitors from across the globe. With over 1.3 million visitors annually, we are committed to providing an exceptional experience that celebrates the beauty and cultural richness of gardens.

What does this role entail?

As the Operations Manager, your role involves leading the teams responsible for the seamless maintenance and operations of Hamilton Gardens to exceptionally high standards. You’ll cultivate a visitor-centric culture, drive continuous improvement, and ensure efficiency. Most importantly, you will shape the team’s culture and set performance standards.

This multifaceted position focuses on ensuring our gardens are ‘visitor ready’ every day, befitting of a visitor destination that ranks in the top 1% of Trip Advisor listings worldwide.

Specifically, this role requires:

• Leadership: You’ll lead the horticulture operations team, developing and implementing strategies, action plans, and processes to deliver a world-class visitor experience at Hamilton Gardens.
• Team Management: You’ll be responsible for the recruitment, training, rostering, and performance management of the operations team. Your focus will be on ensuring the team delivers to an exceptionally high standard while working safely.
• Continuous Improvement: Encouraging a visitor-centric culture, you’ll promote continuous improvement in systems, processes, and service delivery. You’ll also monitor industry trends and best practises to identify and implement positive changes.
• Stakeholder Relationships: Establishing and nurturing key relationships with stakeholders, community groups, partners, sponsors, and external organisations is essential for success.

What do I need to be successful in the role?

• At least 10 years’ leadership experience in a horticultural management context.
• A post graduate diploma within horticulture and/or parks management or related field (advanced degree is beneficial).
• Proven and positive leadership skills with demonstrated ability to take people on a change journey.
• Health and safety experience within the horticulture industry.
• Proven ability to translate strategy into deliverable operational plans.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and calm under pressure.
• Strong commercial management skills.
• A strong understanding of tikanga and commitment to inclusiveness.

Can I work flexibly?

There is flexibility, however its dependent on the requirements of the role. Typically, the role works from 7am through to 4.30pm, which could also include weekends and public holidays.

What’s the salary?

This is dependent and negotiable on the calibre of the skills and experience the successful candidate can bring to the team.

Will I be a good fit?

This role sits within the leadership team of Hamilton Gardens, who encourage growth, autonomy and have a great supportive culture.

What’s in it for me?

We offer a range of additional staff benefits on top of the salary, which includes:

• Free private medical insurance for you and discounted policies for your family members, with pre-existing conditions covered.
• Two paid wellbeing days each year to make sure you are looking after yourself.
• An array of internal staff benefits such as learning and career development, retail discounts, and more!

Who will I report to?

You will report directly to the Director of Hamilton Gardens.

Who will be reporting to me?

You will be leading multiple horticultural operation teams across Hamilton Gardens, looking after the overall planting, horticultural care, and maintenance of the grounds.

I’m interested! What do I need to do to apply?

If you’re interested to learn more, view the position description.

If you still have questions about the operations of the team or the role, you are welcome to direct these to the Hamilton Gardens Director: lucy.ryan@hcc.govt.nz (we will not be accepting applications via email).

Polish your resume and a cover letter introducing yourself.

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We’ll be reviewing applications and contacting candidates throughout the advertisement period, up until the week of the advert closing.

This role is important to us, so we're seeking an Operations Manager with robust leadership skills, extensive operational management experience, and a collaborative mindset.

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