Area Program Manager - Utilities

As our Area Program Manager – Utilities, you will lead high-impact infrastructure projects and drive a multi million dollar capital project portfolio while leading a dynamic team of professionals. Why Choose Oji Fibre Solutions?At Oji Fibre Solutions, our Forest Resources Manufacturing operations are committed to the efficient and complete use of sustainably sourced virgin wood-fibre from renewable forestry resources. We take pride in producing world-class market kraft pulps, used in a wide range of boards and specialty products around the world. Exceptional Benefits Package:

Competitive salary + enhanced superannuationFree RegularCare Southern Cross medical insuranceComprehensive income protection, disability & life insuranceFree onsite health services (annual checks, flu vaccinations, nurse appointments)Employee Assistance Program (EAP)Career development opportunities in a supportive, experienced team environmentThe OpportunityTake ownership of a high-value capital project portfolio ($5-10M annually) from strategic planning through successful execution. You'll provide leadership to Project Controllers while collaborating across operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to deliver projects safely, on time, and within budget. Key Responsibilities:

Develop and maintain program-level project schedules across multiple complex initiativesStrategically allocate resources, ensuring optimal skills deployment and capacity managementLead and mentor a team of Project Controllers through project lifecyclesCoordinate project work with production priorities and scheduled shutdownsConduct monthly project reviews and weekly portfolio risk assessmentsDrive safety compliance and risk mitigation across all project activitiesEngage stakeholders across the business and communicate performance to senior leadershipFoster collaboration between maintenance, production, and project teamsWhat You'll BringEssential Requirements:

Engineering degree or equivalent qualification8-10+ years of experience in project/program management within manufacturing, pulp & paper, or heavy process industriesProven track record managing multiple complex capital projects simultaneouslyExpertise in project planning, shutdown coordination, and risk managementStrong leadership and stakeholder engagement capabilitiesProficiency with project management tools (MS Project, QuickBase preferred)Desirable Experience:

Knowledge of pulp & paper operations and processesContract negotiation and budget development experienceHSWA legislation familiarityExperience with major process industry shutdownsReady to Make an Impact?If you're a strategic thinker who thrives in fast-paced technical environments and wants to drive meaningful results in sustainable manufacturing, we want to hear from you. To Apply: Submit your CV and brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation for this role. All shortlisted candidates will undergo pre-employment medical and drug testing, plus Ministry of Justice and work eligibility checks (costs covered by Oji Fibre Solutions). Essential:

You must have the legal right to work in New Zealand (NZ Citizen or Resident Visa preferred). Oji Fibre Solutions is committed to sustainable forestry practices and producing world-class products that make a difference globally. Join us in shaping the future of renewable manufacturing. Apply now to be part of our mission. Applications close: Wednesday, 20th August 2025Share