Operations Manager

About the Role

The Civil Aviation Authority is responsible for ensuring New Zealand's skies remain secure and continually shaping the future of aviation. We are seeking an Operations Manager to lead frontline aviation security operations at Auckland Airport, New Zealand's busiest airport. This permanent leadership role involves directing Team Leaders with the aim of delivering high-quality and compliant aviation security services.

Key Responsibilities

• Guide, support, and develop frontline Aviation Security Team Leaders to achieve operational excellence.
• Ensure operations comply with all statutory, legislative, regulatory, and operational mandates.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with airport partners, external agencies, and internal stakeholders to maintain a safe aviation environment.
• Participate in emergency preparedness initiatives, health and safety programs, and promote continuous operational improvements.
• Cultivate an inclusive and high-performing workplace culture emphasizing accountability, wellbeing, engagement, and ongoing learning.

Required Skills and Experience

• Demonstrated leadership abilities managing operational or frontline teams in complex and fast-moving settings.
• Proven capability in leading leaders and developing teams through coaching, empowerment, and accountability.
• Strong operational management skills including workforce planning, performance monitoring, quality control, and driving improvements.
• Experience fostering inclusive team cultures that focus on engagement, accountability, and wellbeing.
• Background working within regulated, compliance-driven, or security-focused environments such as law enforcement, corrections, immigration, transport, emergency services, or public sector operations.
• Excellent stakeholder relationship management skills to build trust across diverse internal and external groups.
• Sound judgement and composure under pressure with strong decision-making abilities.
• Effective communication and influence skills to lead change and support organizational objectives.
• Commitment to health, safety, wellbeing, and inclusive workplace environments.
• Familiarity with aviation security operations or the capability to quickly learn aviation regulations (preferred).

Key Role Requirements

• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.
• Possess a full, clean New Zealand Driver Licence.
• Willing to participate in emergency response, special operations, and operational activities when necessary.
• Flexibility to support airport operations within a 24/7 dynamic environment.

About the Employer

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is New Zealand’s official aviation safety and security regulator dedicated to protecting the traveling public and supporting the aviation industry. Our mission ensures a safe and secure aviation system, where people are safe and feel safe when flying. Our workplace values include Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Transparency, and Collaboration. We embrace diversity and inclusion, striving to create environments where all employees feel valued and empowered.

Benefits and Culture

• Five weeks of annual leave.
• KiwiSaver contributions matched up to 4%.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and leadership support.
• A values-driven culture centered on wellbeing, teamwork, and inclusion.

Additional Information

This is a high-impact leadership role critical to the safety and security of New Zealand’s aviation network. Applications should be submitted through the official process; cover letters must articulate how your experience meets the role’s requirements. Accessibility support is available throughout the recruitment process to ensure fairness and equity. Early applications are encouraged as the vacancy may close prior to the stated deadline.

Application Deadline: Sunday, 9 August 2026 at 11:59 pm.