Business Improvement Manager

About PowerNet

PowerNet is New Zealands fourthlargest electricity network management company delivering safe and reliable power to more than 77000 customers across Southland West Otago and parts of Central Otago. With over 300 staff based at depots throughout the region we are passionate about providing safe efficient and reliable electricity while adding value to our stakeholders.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Business Improvement Manager to join our team in Invercargill. The successful candidate will play a key role in driving organisation-wide improvement strengthening capability embedding consistent improvement practices as well as leading the integrated management system and ISO compliance will be the organisations lead for quality and improvement ensuring both disciplines work together to drive performance. With a team of four direct reports this is a rewarding role where you have the opportunity to partner with a range of people and make a real difference.

Key Responsibilities

• Initiate manage and report on the delivery of PowerNets portfolio of strategic initiatives
• Drive strategic improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Ensure quality management systems actively enable continuous improvement and operational performance rather than operating as standalone compliance functions
• Facilitate and maintain PowerNets Integrated Management System and ISO accreditations
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for quality enhancement and process optimisation.
• Take an active leadership role with a specific focus on quality risk and safety management and planning quality improvement and workforce development activities.
• Monitor the effectiveness of quality management systems and identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and deliver training programs to build awareness and capability in quality management principles and practices providing coaching across the organisation.

Qualifications Required

• Formal accreditation in Business Improvement Project Management or Business methodology (e.g. Lean PMP or Prince 2).
• New Zealand qualification and/or experience in Quality Management

Key Skills and Experience

• Demonstrated experience in leading continuous improvement initiatives
• Proven experience in programme/project management and reporting
• Strong knowledge of quality assurance principles and practices including process mapping and ISO framework and accreditation
• A proactive collaborative leadership style
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence across all levels of the organisation.

Why Join PowerNet

At PowerNet were proud to offer more than just a job we provide a workplace built on trust teamwork and genuine support. Your development and wellbeing matter here and your contribution will be recognised and valued. Join us and enjoy:

• Competitive remuneration
• 5 Weeks of annual leave each year
• Fully subsidised Southern Cross health insurance
• The option to work a 9-day fortnight (enjoy a three-day weekend every two weeks)
• A comprehensive health & wellbeing programme
• A supportive work environment with professional development opportunities
• Relocation benefits

Bring your expertise in quality management and continuous improvement to PowerNet and play a key role in shaping how we deliver quality efficiency and value across our organisation.

We encourage applications from all backgrounds ages genders and communities. We provide a diverse equitable and inclusive workforce environment celebrating differences.

Applications close 30 March 2026. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand.