LIC have been providing innovative farming solutions for over a century, and today, we're proudly NZ's leading agri-tech and dairy herd improvement cooperative. We’re actively shaping the future of agriculture, with a commitment to providing world-renowned genetics and technology products that empower dairy farmers to create sustainable and profitable farms.

The Opportunity:

As our National Herd Testing Manager, you'll play a pivotal role in managing the strategic and operational aspects of our Herd Testing business. With responsibility for both field operations and laboratories nationwide, you'll drive continuous improvement, while ensuring high-quality service delivery and operational excellence.  

With 2 Labs, processing in excess of 11 million samples per annum, this is one of the largest laboratory operations in Australasia.  Add 10 Depots, over 75 Trucks, 6 direct reports and a total team size of 160 that swells to 340 during peak season, this is a sizeable operation that will suit a senior operations leader with outstanding people leadership.  While Dairy and Technical Lab understanding would be an advantage, it's not an absolute requirement.   

This is a rare opportunity to lead an iconic part of our business for the next successful chapter.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leadership: Cultivating a high-performance culture that unites teams and encourages collaboration.
• Strategic Planning: Developing and implementing the Herd Testing services strategy and Annual Operating Plan in alignment with overall business strategy.
• Innovation and Growth: Driving the development and execution of new business initiatives to enhance productivity and expand existing activities.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Foster relationships with key stakeholders, both internal and external, to achieve business objectives.
• Financial Performance: Achieve budgeted financial results and cost efficiencies from the Herd Testing business.
• Assurance: Manage risk and ensure compliance with all Internal Herd Testing and ISO Standards.
• Results Driven: Maintaining operational efficiency and fast turnaround time for Herd Testing results, while working with farmers, LIC and industry partners to push for high standards of information and accuracy of information to drive genetic gain for the industry.

About You:

As our ideal candidate, you are a forward-thinking leader who positively shapes culture and empowers others to succeed. Your leadership will be instrumental in creating an environment of trust, respect, and innovation. You'll champion operational excellence and drive a high-performance environment centred around the customer.

You will confidently demonstrate:

• A proven track record in strategic operational business management, this could be within engineering, manufacturing, testing, quality control, or similar environment.
• The ability to communicate effectively, influence stakeholders, and negotiate successfully.
• Sharp commercial acumen and a strong strategic mindset, considering long-term and broader implications.
• A strong focus on continuous improvement and ability to inspire innovation within your team.
• Experience in leading teams across multiple locations and managing direct reports who are managers of teams is highly desirable.

In Return:

• Competitive Salary: We value your skills and expertise. Enjoy a competitive salary that recognises your contributions.
• Great Work Environment: Our Riverlea Rd facilities include cutting-edge laboratories, robotics and equipment. 
• Benefits that Matter: You'll receive some great benefits, including access to our employee shares scheme, extra leave days, and discounted health, life, income, and disability insurances.

Take the opportunity to shape the future of dairy, within a values-led, progressive organisation.