LIC is a farmer-owned co-operative that’s been supporting herd improvement in New Zealand’s dairy sector for more than 115 years. We’re focused on providing superior genetics, reliable testing and diagnostics, integrated on-farm software, and great customer service, all designed to help farmers make smarter decisions every day.

As a proud generational co-operative, we’re here for farmers, their families, and rural communities, not just for today, but for the future. And none of it happens without our people. Whether on farm, in the lab, or behind the scenes, every one of us plays a part in helping New Zealand farmers succeed.

About the Role:   

As part of the wider Operations team, the Regional AB Operations Manager leads 3–4 Seasonal Supervisors and an Artificial Breeding workforce of 150–200 across the region. With accountability for compliance to National AB Standards, you’ll provide strong leadership, practical guidance, and support to teams working in a fast‑paced, seasonal environment.

You’ll oversee recruitment, training, performance, capability development, and technical standards across the LIC AB Technician Service, while partnering closely with the AB Base Supervisor to ensure efficient, cost‑effective logistics and service delivery.

Peak dairy season is demanding, rewarding, and full of momentum. This role sits at the heart of on‑farm performance in New Zealand’s largest primary industry, where what you and your team deliver every day genuinely matters. Your team’s performance has a direct impact on farmers, the wider dairy sector, and the New Zealand economy — a responsibility the LIC team takes seriously.

Your Key Focus:

• Lead the recruitment, training, and development of trainee AB Technicians and AB Supervisors to ensure delivery of high-quality Artificial Insemination services.

• Manage training and capability to ensure full compliance with NZQA standards.

• Leadership of 3-4 AB Supervisors across your region.

• Work closely with Logistics and AB Base Supervisors to continuously improve systems and processes, supporting the delivery of a low-cost, high-quality service.

• Own and continuously improve the Quality Management System for the Technician Service.

• Partner with the wider LIC business to support innovation and continuous improvement across AB products and services.

Your Skills & Experience:

• Tertiary qualification in Agribusiness or Commerce (preferred).

• Strong understanding of the dairy and farming sectors.

• Proven leadership capability with a demonstrated commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing.

• Experience leading and developing large, seasonal, and geographically dispersed teams.

• Strong operational, organisational, budget, and time management skills.

• Confident with digital tools and systems (including Excel and Word; LIC systems advantageous).

• Knowledge of Artificial Breeding techniques and processes (advantageous).

• Ability to analyse technical performance data and make evidence-based recommendations.

• Understanding of basic engineering principles related to safe AB facilities.

In Return:  

In addition to a competitive salary, you'll receive extra leave days, flexible working options, discounted health, life, income and disability insurances, wellbeing discounts, a vehicle for work and private use, an employee assistance programme, plus more!

This is a highly visible and pivotal role, where you'll have plenty of opportunity to achieve great results. You'll be joining a values-led, progressive organisation, where you'll play a role in driving the future of dairy in NZ.