Optimisation Lead

• Full Time
• Application Closes 24 Nov 2025
• Otago - Dunedin City
• Logistician

Port Otago Group’s business comprises a regional container terminal, bulk port activities, cruise and property investment and development. We service South Canterbury, Otago, and Southland, working with customers to streamline their supply chains. Our culture is hands-on, safety focused and encourages continuous improvement. 

Our diverse portfolio means there is always something on the go and as a business we are collaborative, fast-paced and always open. 

About the role:

We have a fantastic opportunity for an Optimisation Lead to join our Operations team on a permanent full-time basis in our award-winning, vibrant Head Office in beautiful Port Chalmers. 

This is a Wednesday – Sunday position and you will play a critical role in ensuring our processes and systems support the planning and control team to be data led and continually improve. 

Reporting to the Optimisation Manager, you will play a key role in: 

• Leading and integrating vessel and yard planning functions to ensure seamless, efficient, and safe operations across Port Otago.
• Leading our team of four vessel planners and nine controllers. 
• Providing strategic oversight and operational leadership to optimise container flow, vessel stowage, yard space utilisation, and execution alignment. 
• Reviewing planned versus actual performance to identify variances, enabling data-driven adjustments that inform and improve future planning cycles.
• Acting as a key liaison between planning teams, terminal operations teams, and external stakeholders, driving performance, collaboration, and innovation to support exceptional service delivery.

About you: 

You’ll have a track record in process and systems change and operations leadership, ideally from a Port or logistics environment. You’ll be able to hit the ground running with your proven leadership experience including working in cross functional teams, building and leading high-performing teams, and driving collaboration across to ensure operational success. 

Given the ever-evolving nature of our business, you’ll also be proactive and flexible approach to your work.

You’ll also: 

• Have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field, or equivalent experience. 
• Be an expert in data analysis tools and software, with experience in applying data insights to effectively drive continuous improvement in both people and system performance.  
• Have strong problem-solving skills with experience identifying, analysing and designing solutions for complex operational challenges.  
• Have a collaborative approach, building relationships and influencing a wide range of stakeholders through excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to engage and motivate others. 
• Strong organisational skills with high attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities.  

What’s in it for you? 

You’ll get to work with a supportive, driven and collaborative team who turn up every day to make a difference. You’ll also have access to a range of fantastic benefits including:

• Competitive remuneration package and support for your ongoing development.
• 7% employer superannuation contribution and comprehensive health insurance cover for you, your partner, and any dependent children
• Amazing Otago Harbour views from the office, free on-site parking, EV chargers and secure bike storage.
• Fruit boxes delivered weekly to break areas, full uniform provided, Nespresso machines on-site for your daily coffee fix, and various wellness initiatives throughout the year.

 Heads up:

• This is typically a Wednesday to Sunday position, but as the Port operates 24/7, occasionally some flexibility is required.
• You must have a high standard of health and safety.
• You must be able to pass Ministry of Justice, ACC checks and a medical which includes a drug and alcohol test as part of our recruitment process.
• We complete random drug and alcohol testing.

 How do I apply? 

Please apply online via our website www.portotago.co.nz/careers to ensure our Port Otago Application Form is completed. Ensure that you include a copy of your up-to-date CV along with your application.  

Applications close 5pm, Monday 24 November 2025. Don’t delay as we will be reviewing applications as they come in.