The Opportunity
Cater Plus has an exciting and varied opportunity for an experienced Operational Manager to join our team and play a key role in shaping and growing our catering operations, initially across the Auckland region but potentially extending in time to include the Waikato region.
The position will be Auckland based.
This is a hands‐on, visible leadership role suited to someone who thrives in a multi‐site environment, enjoys building strong client relationships, and takes pride in developing high‐performing teams. You'll have the chance to bring creativity, commercial thinking, and leadership together while being a true ambassador for Cater Plus.
Flexibility is essential in this role, as regular travel across both Auckland and potentially Waikato regions will be required to support sites, teams, and clients.
About the Role
Reporting to the General Manager of Operations (North and Central), you will be responsible for driving day‐to‐day operational performance while supporting longer‐term growth and development strategies.
This is a fast‐paced, multifaceted role that requires adaptability, sound judgement, and a proactive leadership style. You'll work closely with an Operational Support team and Site Managers to ensure high standards of service delivery, financial performance, and customer satisfaction are consistently achieved.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will bring:
* Proven experience in multi‐site operational management, ideally within a contract catering or food services environment.
* Strong commercial acumen, including budget management and contract compliance.
* A customer‐focused mindset with excellent stakeholder and client relationship skills.
* The ability to coach, mentor, and engage teams to achieve strong performance outcomes.
* Confidence aligning teams to company standards and setting the tone through positive leadership.
* An understanding of the food service sector and the operational challenges within it.
* The ability to think creatively about food trends, innovation, design, and technology and execute within budget.
* Experience planning, coordinating, and delivering functions and events to a high standard.
* A continuous improvement mindset, with a focus on quality, performance, and people development.
* Flexibility and willingness to travel regularly across Auckland and Waikato.
* Ability to work collaboratively within a team of 7 other Operations Manager
* Most importantly, you'll be someone who aligns with our culture. Positive, self‐managed, and motivated to take ownership and deliver results.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary package.
* Company vehicle (private use) and fuel.
* The opportunity to work for an organisation with strong community values.
* Access to exclusive employee benefits.
* A role with genuine variety where you can make a meaningful impact and support people to reach their full potential.
About Cater Plus
Cater Plus is a leading contract catering company with over 740 team members nationwide. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent service and creating environments where our people can thrive.
Learn more about life at Cater Plus: /employment
How to Apply
Applicants must be New Zealand citizens, permanent residents, or otherwise eligible to work in New Zealand. Please include your current visa status (and expiry date, if applicable) in your application.
We review applications as they are received, so don't delay, apply now with your current CV and a cover letter outlining your interest in the role.
This position is expected to commence in May 2026, with some flexibility for the right candidate.