Rural Manager

About Rabobank New Zealand

Rabobank is a global banking specialist focused on food and agribusiness. The organisation’s people bring deep agricultural knowledge and a long-term mindset aimed at creating value for clients and supporting the growth of New Zealand.

Putting people and customers first is central to the way the business operates.

Role overview

This is an opportunity for an experienced, results-oriented Relationship Manager to join the Country Banking team. The position involves managing and expanding a portfolio of rural clients while balancing client service, commercial growth, and prudent risk management.

In this client-facing role, you will be responsible for building trusted partnerships, delivering customised financial solutions, and working with internal experts to help shape the future of rural banking in your region.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and expand a portfolio of rural clients through durable, trusted relationships.
• Handle complex customer requirements by providing tailored lending and financial solutions.
• Support business growth by winning new clients and strengthening existing relationships.
• Conduct high-quality Farm Business Discussions to help clients make informed decisions.
• Maintain strong credit risk discipline and follow internal policy requirements.
• Achieve sound financial outcomes across lending, deposits, and margins.
• Spot emerging risks early and put practical solutions in place.
• Contribute to local business planning, marketing activity, and community engagement.
• Partner with Credit, Operations, and specialist teams to secure the best possible outcomes.
• Coach and assist colleagues while contributing to a cooperative team culture.

About you

To succeed in this position, you will combine commercial judgement with a genuine understanding of the rural sector and the people within it.

• A qualification in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or Agriculture.
• At least 5 years of experience in rural banking or a similar field.
• Strong financial capability, including confidence with cash flow, balance sheets, and profit and loss statements.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships, influence decisions, and negotiate effectively.
• Working knowledge of lending, credit procedures, and risk frameworks.
• Strong interest in the food and agribusiness sector.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders.

What’s on offer

Join a values-led organisation with a clear growth agenda and a workplace culture built around inclusion, belonging, and positive experiences for both employees and clients.

Along with a competitive salary, the role includes a range of benefits such as learning and development opportunities, health and wellbeing initiatives, extra leave options, flexible working arrangements, and insurance plus financial benefits.

Additional information

Applications close on Sunday 5 July 2026.

Rabobank New Zealand states that it is committed to inclusion, equity, and belonging, and that all qualified applicants will be considered without discrimination based on ethnicity, sex or sex characteristics, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, or other diversity characteristics. The organisation describes itself as an equal opportunity employer.

The company also notes its core values: being client-driven, taking responsibility, acting professionally, and working cooperatively. It emphasises an open culture where people can be themselves and feel valued.

Location: Otorohanga, Waikato, New Zealand.