Head of Operations

|Manufacturing & Trades - Operations Management|New Zealand

Join an innovative robotics start-up and lead the operational engine that will take a pioneering product from prototype to global scale.

This newly created senior leadership role reports directly to the CEO. You’ll own the entire operational landscape — production, supply chain, customer support, and manufacturing strategy — to prepare for commercial launch and future international growth of this innovative kiwi business.

About the Company
This is a New Zealand-founded robotics venture developing autonomous household robotics. With a talented engineering team, strong investor backing, and a production launch planned for next year, now is the time to put in place the right operational leadership to scale effectively and sustainably.

About the Role
You’ll be responsible for building and leading all operational functions, including:

  • Establishing and optimising manufacturing processes — both local and offshore (e.g., US or Mexico)
  • Direct team management of a growing team (including production and quality managers)
  • Designing and managing the global supply chain, procurement, logistics, and vendor contracts
  • Implementing ERP, PLM, and QMS systems to ensure quality, scalability, and reliable reporting
  • Leading warranty, service, and customer support frameworks for a smooth post-sale experience
  • Partnering with engineering, product, and commercial teams to align product readiness with operational capacity
  • This is a hands-on senior leadership position for someone who can translate strategy into execution, influence across technical and commercial teams, and bring credibility through deep, modern manufacturing expertise.

About You
We’re looking for someone who brings:

  • Highly experienced in operations, supply chain, logistics, and manufacturing (at least 5 in leadership)
  • Experience scaling complex hardware products in robotics, consumer electronics, or integrated hardware/software environments
  • A proven track record in setting up or managing high-yield manufacturing, including multi-site or international facilities
  • Familiarity with ERP/QMS implementation, supply chain risk management, and cost optimisation
  • Leadership skills that combine operational depth with the ability to guide and grow teams at pace
  • $180-190K+ (negotiable). Company share options, insurances & bonus

Opportunity
This is a rare chance to step into a senior leadership seat in a New Zealand technology company at a pivotal growth moment. You’ll shape the way this innovative product reaches the world — with a high degree of autonomy, direct executive influence, and the ability to see your decisions translated into real-world impact.

If you would like to join this growing company, then please apply for the role. If you would like some more information, then please reach out to me: Luke Atkinson on 04 333 0383 or luke@trs.co.nz

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