Global Operations People Business Partner

Kō wai mātou? Who are we?

Zespri is more than simply the world's single-largest marketer of kiwifruit. We like to think of ourselves as fruit on a mission and as rebels with a cause: to help people, communities and the environment around the world thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit. We are proudly the world's largest marketer of kiwifruit, selling kiwifruit in more than 50 countries. We work with around 2,800 New Zealand and 1,500 international growers and post-harvest companies to source the best-quality Zespri Kiwifruit which we supply through our distribution partners to wholesale and retail customers. We are one of New Zealand's best-known international brands, dedicated to creating sustainable long-term value for growers.

He aha te mahi? What's the role?

At Zespri, we’re passionate about growing the world’s best kiwifruit and creating an environment where our people thrive. The purpose of a Global Operations People Business Partner is to act as a trusted advisor to the Function Chief and their leadership team, collaborating to shape and implement People Strategies that align initiatives with business goals, foster a positive workplace culture, and drive overall organisational success. 

In this six month fixed-term contract role, you’ll partner with senior leaders to deliver impactful initiatives that strengthen engagement, capability, and organisational performance across diverse global markets.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Strategic Partnering: Work closely with the Function Chief and leadership team to design and execute an annual People Plan aligned with Zespri’s Global People Strategy. 
• Lead Key Initiatives: Drive engagement, capability building, organisational design, workforce planning, talent management, remuneration, safety & wellbeing, and change projects across global teams. 
• Trusted Advisor: Provide expert guidance on job design, performance improvement, change management, and employment matters, ensuring compliance and consistency. 
• Collaborate Globally: Partner with regional People Business Partners, Talent Acquisition, and People Experience teams to deliver seamless people processes and capability programs. 
• Champion Culture & Wellbeing: Advocate for Zespri’s values and purpose while promoting safety and wellbeing across all business units.

Ko wai koe? Who are you?

We are looking for a seasoned HR professional with strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to navigate complex global environments. You will also possess:

• Proven experience as a strategic business partner supporting large teams and senior leaders. 
• Expertise in leadership development, coaching, and influencing at all levels. 
• Strong commercial acumen with capability across organisational design, workforce planning, change management, talent development, and succession planning. 
• Proven ability to prioritise and collaborate in complex environments. 
• High cross-cultural competence and executive presence with excellent communication skills in English. 
• Ability to build strong relationships and facilitate teamwork across global functions.
• Degree qualified (preferably in preferably in HR, Org Development, Industrial Relations, or Business Management).

He aha e tika ai a Zespri? Why Zespri?

Our people are what makes our culture so irresistible and uniquely Zespri. We are a passionate and mighty team of 850+ employees in 23 different locations globally. Working at Zespri is an opportunity to join a fast-paced, culture-driven environment unlike any other. We want people who share our values of making it happen, creating real connections, and leaving a legacy. Join us in shaping our future and be part of a truly unique organisation.
 

• Competitive overall remuneration package
• FlexWELL flexible work ethos; WFH & the office.
• Convenient Mount Maunganui office location, with free onsite parking.
• Your daily dose of Vitamin C with free kiwifruit!

Tono mai inaianei! Apply Now! Applications close 24 November 2025.

At Zespri, we understand the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences, and a fair hiring process is the first step to getting there. We want to attract a diverse range of people and encourage everyone from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Please let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments to take part in the recruitment and selection process by reaching out to our Talent Acquisition team via email at careers@zespri.com.