Ko te take ka parekareka e koe ki te mahi ki kōnei | Why you will enjoy working here

Downer is committed to delivering excellence by ensuring our people have the environment and the means to be successful. We offer:

Competitive salary package + Company vehicle  Relocation costs available Free access to Marram health care benefits and discounted holiday homes  Progression and development programs on offer including our inspiring leader’s programme for top performers

Have a look at our other great benefits here!

 

Te kōwhiringa | The Opportunity 

We have an excellent opportunity for a highly experienced Construction Operations Manager to join our Central Otago team, this role is more than just operational oversight – it’s about transformation. We’re seeking a driven and energetic leader who sees opportunity where others see challenge. The Construction Operations Manager will not only lead delivery of projects but play a central role in rebuilding and reshaping the construction business across Central Otago. 

You’ll have the vision and appetite to grow the business from the ground up – recruiting and building a high-performing team, identifying capability gaps, and leading by example. This is a rare chance to take ownership of a business unit and steer it in a direction you believe in, backed by the support of a national organisation. 

In the early stages of growth, you’ll be hands-on, managing key projects while the right team structure is established. We’re looking for someone who is not only capable but willing to roll up their sleeves and lead from the front. Patience, persistence, and a growth mindset are essential – as the right foundations will take time to set. But for the right person, this is a rare platform to lead a business transformation and leave a legacy in a high- potential region. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Drive best-practice delivery of physical works across all construction activities  Align operational delivery with long-term strategic objectives, helping shape our future business  Lead a multidisciplinary team including Contract Managers, Engineers, Supervisors and frontline teams. Mentor, coach and develop capability Oversee tendering, planning, estimating, and execution of complex civil construction projects  Maintain and strengthen key relationships with local authorities, NZTA, subcontractors, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.  Champion a culture of Zero Harm and ensure all work complies with company and industry safety, quality, and environmental standards 

 

Nga pūkenga matua | Important Skills

This is a unique opportunity for someone seeking autonomy and influence. You’ll be empowered to shape strategy, structure, and culture- bringing your vision to life while contributing to the broader strategic goals of Downer. To be successful in this role you will bring with you: 

Proven senior leadership experience in civil construction, Infrastructure, Roading  Tertiary qualification in Civil Engineering or a related discipline (or equivalent experience)  Existing knowledge of the local construction market and industry contracts to fast-track growth and partnership opportunities  Demonstrated ability to manage multiple large-scale contracts from tender to delivery  Strong commercial acumen with a focus on cost control, programme management, and contract margins Experience working within a Tier 1 civil contractor or similar large-scale environment  Skilled in building high-performing, engaged teams and leading cross-functional project teams 

 

Ko wai mātou | Our Organisation 

Want to know more about what it is like to work at Downer? Then head to our People Site here!

 

Me pēhea ki te tono | How to apply 

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, click Apply Now to submit your application! The reference number for this role is 722363

We are committed to a safe working environment for everyone - all successful applicants will be required to undertake a pre-employment drug test, medical and a Ministry of Justice check prior to starting employment. If you need support with this requirement, please talk to our team.