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Urban Operations Manager

Palmerston North, New Zealand

Reference: 6848039

Are you passionate about operations and leading people?

We are seeking an Urban Operations Manager to drive the success of our Manawatu driving team and transport network!

Tranzit is proudly NZ family-owned transport and tourism provider operating throughout NZ, and we have recently celebrated our centenary! We play a vital role in keeping kiwi communities connected, delivering a wide range of transport solutions nationwide. In Palmerston North we are delivering New Zealand's first fully electric bus transport network in partnership with Horizons Regional Council. Backed by a passionate and committed team, we're proud to provide safe, reliable transport services that make a real difference every day.

Transport is a fast paced and thrilling industry, and this position will suit someone who thrives on change and quick, methodical decision making.

The role:

  • Leadership and support of our urban driving and operations team, including 91 drivers and 4 operations team members.
  • Ensure day to day operations run smoothly, such as effective rostering (worktime rules, and efficient allocation of drivers/vehicles) and support of the operations team with on road disruptions/incidents.
  • Manage recruitment of new team members and workforce planning to maintain a strong team and ensure delivery of our urban network.
  • Fleet management and maintenance to ensure the reliability of our fleet and safety.
  • Build and continue to strengthen our key relationship with Horizon's Regional Council and other external stakeholders.
  • Champion Health and Safety initiatives, ensuring compliance and fostering a safety-first culture within the urban team.
  • Monitor operational performance, providing reporting and insights to support decision-making and drive continuous improvement across our urban network.

About you:

  • A strong and proven people leader who is approachable and able to build trust to drive a positive team culture.
  • Operationally focussed, and you understand the needs of a transport operation, ability to respond quickly to disruptions, optimises workflows, and step in when needed.
  • A clear, calm, and direct communication style to keep everyone informed and resolves issues quickly, including with our external stakeholders.
  • Organised and detail-oriented, you are skilled at managing rosters, compliance, and systems; anticipates risks and handle multiple priorities effectively.
  • Resilient and calm under pressure, you are able to maintain composure during incidents, complaints and busy periods to make decisions quickly.
  • Clean full licence for 2 years+ and ability to obtain a Passenger Endorsement and Class 2 licence,

If you have any questions about the role, please email hr@tranzit.co.nz.

We will be reviewing applicants as they apply, so apply online today! Applications will close on 5 February 2026.

About us: The Tranzit Group is New Zealand's largest family-owned transport and tourism company operating throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. For 100 years we've held the reputation of being pioneers and innovators in the bus and coach industry and our team has no intention of slowing down. We partner with our people and communities to be the trusted provider of quality, safe, innovative, and sustainable transport and tourism solutions. These solutions are backed up by solid health, safety, and wellbeing principles and training that reflects industry best practices, reinforcing our commitment to safety, efficiency, and service excellence. People are at the heart of Tranzit. Our team of over 2000 are located throughout New Zealand and they love what they do, remaining guided by family values that continue to withstand the test of time.

Please note that successful applicants will be required to successfully pass a drug and alcohol test as well as a police background check as part of the pre-employment screening process.


Applications Close: 05 Feb 2026



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