Assistant Operations Manager, North America

About Zespri

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.

About The Role

Reporting to the Head of Supply Chain, North America, the Assistant  Operations Manager US and Canada is responsible for leading end-to-end supply chain operations:

• Develop and execute supply chain strategies.
• Identify and resolve operational gaps.
• Analyse KPIs.
• Lead high-performing teams.
• Support market access requirements, including import permits and documentation.
• Manage shipment tracking and customs clearance visibility.
• Monitor and rotate inventory across locations; ensure quality and customer satisfaction.
• Oversee pallet selection and in-market packing coordination.
• Administer FSMA documentation and recall procedures.
• Lead crisis management documentation and communication processes.
• Represent North America in global supply chain initiatives.
• Support KPI standardization, budget management, and continuous improvement..

Who are you?

We are looking for an energetic, problem-solving leader with a passion for driving results and optimizing operations in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. You will be seasoned in people management and bring a minimum of 5 years’ experience in demand or supply planning, or in related operational functions such as procurement, importing, or warehousing. You will have:

• Proven expertise in process management with a focus on quality, timeliness, and adaptability in dynamic environments.
• Strong analytical skills for interpreting complex data and supporting sound decision-making.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to foster collaboration and secure commitment across all organizational levels.
• Advanced planning and organizational abilities, including resource allocation and performance tracking.
• Skilled in delivering clear, impactful presentations and adapting to audience feedback.
• Deep functional knowledge with the ability to develop and share expertise across teams.
• Demonstrated success in driving process improvements and operational efficiency.
• Bachelor's degree in related field of study (desired).

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.

• The base salary for this position is between $119,470 - $152,651  plus a performance-based short-term incentive scheme (for employees who meet the eligibility criteria) and benefits. Please note that individual total compensation will vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies, performance and work location.
• FlexWELL flexible work ethos; WFH & the office.
• Additional paid annual leave day per year (Zespri Day).
• Additional paid volunteer day to volunteer within your community (Volunteer Time).
• Global Life and Permanent Disability Insurance.
• Group Medical Insurance benefits.

Apply Now! Applications close 16 June 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.