General Manager - Vessel Operations - NIWA

The New Zealand National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) owns and operates a national fleet of research vessels out of Port Wellington. These vessels are equipped for ocean science, exploration and marine engineering, and provide research and survey capabilities throughout the South Pacific, Southern Ocean and Antarctica. NIWA has over 70 years of experience in ocean science and research vessel operations.

What we're looking for:

The General Manager - Vessel Operations is a senior and highly influential role responsible for the timely and effective operational management of three research vessels (Tangaroa, Kaharoa and Ikatere) and their associated equipment, workshops, and marine and land-based staff (47). The role assists in the development and implementation of strategies, policies and procedures, and ensures that research and commercial voyages are delivered in accordance with contractual arrangements.

The RV Kaharoa, our mid-sized research vessel, is due to be replaced and our current General Manager will be relocating to Europe to oversee the build of a new vessel. We are therefore looking for a capable leader with vessel operations experience to step into this role to provide effective leadership and management of NIWA's research vessels.

What you will bring:

• A relevant tertiary qualification
• A track record of successfully leading and managing medium to large-sized teams of highly specialised technical personnel
• Ship operations management experience
• Relevant experience in project management, contract management and procurement
• Familiarity with national and international maritime standards and regulations
• A thorough understanding of ship operations and relevant organisational health and safety requirements

If you think you have what it takes but don't meet every point referenced in the position description, please still get in touch!

NIWA promotes the importance and value of an inclusive and diverse workforce, including the Rainbow Community, and pride ourselves on being a family-friendly and supportive workplace.