Marine Operations Manager

We are working with RealNZ, a standout tourism operator with deep roots in some of Aotearoa's most iconic locations, from Queenstown and Fiordland to Stewart Island. Their marine operations are central to how they connect people with these wild places, and we're looking to speak with experienced maritime leaders ready to take the helm. We're recruiting a Maritime Operations Manager - a critical leadership role that blends operational oversight with people development. You'll directly lead Senior Launch Masters and a Maritime Resource Planner, while overseeing training, crewing, and readiness across our fleet.

Partnering with the Maritime Safety and Experience teams, you'll help ensure RealNZ delivers safe, compliant, and memorable journeys through some of the country's most extraordinary marine environments. If you're someone who thrives in dynamic, remote environments, understands the balance of compliance, service, and team culture and wants to contribute to a purpose-driven organisation. . . this is a rare opportunity. RobLawMax is proud to partner with RealNZ on this key hire and help find the right person to guide their marine operations into the future. What you'll be doing:

Leading and supporting Senior Launch Masters, Launch Masters, and crew across multiple marine locations. Overseeing day-to-day vessel operations, crew planning, voyage safety, and compliance with RealNZ's Maritime Transport Operator Plan (MTOP). Partnering with the Maritime Safety and Experience teams to drive operational readiness, vessel standards, and continuous improvement. Championing people leadership - including performance development, succession planning, training, and creating a strong team culture. Supporting vessel availability and scheduling by collaborating with the Asset and Engineering teams. Playing a key role in emergency preparedness, safety training, and maintaining operational documentation and systems. What we're looking for:

Proven leadership experience in maritime or operational environments, ideally with team oversight across multiple sites. Strong working knowledge of Maritime NZ regulations, MOSS/MTOP frameworks, and vessel operations. A collaborative leadership style with a passion for building capability and creating high-performing, engaged teams. Confidence in managing compliance, audits, training systems, and operational risk in dynamic environments. Excellent communication skills and a natural ability to influence across different teams and departments. Why RealNZ?Work in one of the most inspiring marine environments on the planet. Lead meaningful operations that bring people closer to nature, safely and sustainably.

Be part of a purpose-led organisation committed to environmental protection and world-class visitor experiences. Enjoy competitive salary, staff benefits, career growth, and a culture that puts people and place first. You’ll be based in Te Anau, the operational heart of RealNZ’s marine network, though Queenstown could be considered for the right candidate with regular travel. For a completely confidential chat about this exciting role, call Peter Henderson on 027 441 9300 or apply here online!