• Fixed-term leadership position

• Based in Waiouru

• Delivering exceptional visitor experiences and supporting strategy

Everest People is proud to partner with the National Army Museum Te Mata Toa.

About the organisation

Every hour of every day, 365 days of the year, the New Zealand Defence Force is contributing to the defence, security and well-being of Aotearoa / New Zealand. The National Army Museum Te Mata Toa is the kaitiaki of the taonga, stories, and history of the New Zealand Army and its soldiers. Located at the heart of the Central Plateau, the Museum records, reflects and connects visitors with the lived experiences of the NZ soldier, shaping our nation’s identity and heritage.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Operations Manager to join the team on a six‑month fixed‑term contract. Based on-site in Waiouru, this role is ideal for someone who brings strong financial acumen, operational expertise, and a passion for delivering exceptional visitor experiences.

You will

• Lead day‑to‑day commercial operations across retail, café, admissions, and administrative functions, including health & safety.

• Deliver high‑quality reporting, including profit & loss, variance analysis, forecasting, and risk identification to meet stakeholder requirements with accuracy, professionalism, and a strong sense of accountability.

• Inspire, encourage, and support the team, fostering a positive and high‑performing environment through best practice principles.

• Embed and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, including NZDF, Trust Board members, suppliers, and the wider Museum community.

• Identify opportunities to grow revenue, improve visitor experience, and ensure commercial sustainability, contributing effectively to the strategic direction of the organisation.

This role is on-site in Waiouru, offering an opportunity to work in a unique environment surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Central Plateau, ski fields, and popular tourist destinations.

About You

You will thrive in a hands‑on, people‑focused role where no two days are the same. You’ll be confident working with financial information, operational complexity, and a diverse range of stakeholders.

You will bring:

• Proven experience in commercial operations, preferably within a cultural, tourism, or service‑based environment.

• Strong financial literacy, including P&L management, budgeting, forecasting, and insightful analysis to inform reporting and decision-making.

• Exceptional relationship and communication skills, with the ability to lead through complexity with patience, clarity, and consistency.

• Ability to identify risks and opportunities to drive commercial success through additional revenue streams, grants, or funding and shape the future strategic direction of the organisation.

• Leadership capability to create a collaborative and cohesive team in retail, hospitality, or customer‑facing environments implementing best practice principles.

• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering a high‑quality visitor experience.

A tertiary qualification in business or a related field is desirable, as is familiarity with museum, cultural, or heritage sector environments.

Why Waiouru?

This role offers a unique lifestyle - remote yet connected. Waiouru sits at the heart of the Central Plateau, close to Tongariro National Park, ski fields, tramping, cycling, and other adventure activities. It’s an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a nationally significant organisation while enjoying a distinctive and memorable location.

What We Offer

• A meaningful leadership role in a respected national institution.

• A supportive, committed team with a shared purpose.

• Variety, challenge, and the opportunity to make a visible impact.

• Fixed‑term contract for six months with the Museum Trust Board; immediate start preferred.

If you are commercially astute, people‑centred, and ready to step into a role with purpose, we’d love to hear from you.

For further information, contact Helen Dale on 0272679725

Position Description