Operations Manager - SESTA

Operations Manager - SESTA Auckland

Lead a service that helps Auckland students get to school safely every day

At Ritchies Transport, we are looking for an experienced Operations Manager to lead our Auckland SESTA (Specialised School Transport Assistance) operation.

This is more than a transport role. You'll lead a team that delivers safe, reliable transport services for students with additional needs, ensuring they can access education with dignity, care and consistency. The work is meaningful, fast-paced and highly rewarding.

About the role

Reporting to the Area Manager, you'll be responsible for the day-to-day management of our Auckland SESTA operation, leading supervisors, supporting drivers, managing service delivery and building strong relationships with schools, caregivers and Ministry stakeholders.

You will oversee

Daily transport operations and service delivery

Leadership and development of Operations Supervisors

Driver coverage, rostering and workforce planning

Student safety and wellbeing

Incident management and operational problem solving

Stakeholder communication and relationship management

Health, safety, compliance and contract performance

Budget management and operational efficiency initiatives

No two days will be the same. You will be balancing people leadership, operational excellence and customer service while ensuring every student journey is delivered safely and successfully.

What we're looking for

We are keen to hear from people who have experience leading busy operational environments such as transport, logistics, service delivery, healthcare, facilities, warehousing or similar sectors.

You'll bring

Proven people leadership experience

Strong operational planning and organisational skills

The ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously

Excellent communication and relationship management skills

Sound judgement under pressure

Experience managing performance, compliance and health & safety

Confidence using Microsoft 365 and operational systems

A genuine commitment to providing outstanding service for customers and communities

Bonus points if you have:

Experience in school transport, SESTA, disability services or community transport

Contract management experience

Knowledge of Auckland's transport network and road systems

Why join Ritchies?

At Ritchies, we're proud to connect communities across New Zealand. Our people make that happen every day.

We offer

• A leadership role with genuine community impact
• A supportive and experienced management team
• Opportunities to influence and improve service delivery
• A stable and well-established nationwide business
• The chance to make a real difference in the lives of students and their whānau
• Ready to make an impact?
• If you're an experienced operational leader who thrives on building high-performing teams, solving problems and delivering exceptional service, we'd love to hear from you.
• Apply now and help us deliver safe, reliable transport for the students and families who depend on us every day.