Careers at a2

General information

Job Title

Operations Technology (OT) Manager

Location

New Zealand - Pokeno

Date Published

Friday, February 27, 2026

Ref #

373

Work Type

Permanent

Short Summary

Lead OT systems and automation projects, drive production uptime, OEE improvements, and digital transformation across manufacturing operations.

Position Description

Our Story:

We’re excited to share that our business has recently joined the a2 Milk Company family. Formerly known as Yashili Dairy NZ Ltd, we are now operating as a2 Nutritionals NZ Limited, based in Pokeno.

The a2 Milk Company, driven by science and a pioneering spirit, disrupted the dairy and infant milk formula industry. Our vision is to create an A1-free world where dairy nourishes all people and our planet.

The a2 Milk Company seeks to achieve this through the naturally occurring a2 Milk® difference and by bringing a more sustainable approach to dairy.

About the role:

Reporting to the Head of Operations and based at Pokeno, you will be responsible for leading and managing the execution of projects from a supply chain and operations perspective. Projects will include new product creation and development (NPD), supply chain network optimisation, manufacturing capability uplift, cost improvement initiatives and broader a2MC strategic programmes.

You will work cross-functionally with Operations, Planning, Procurement, Quality, R&D and Commercial teams to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget and in line with quality and compliance requirements.

More specifically, you will be involved in:

Leading end-to-end project management for NPD launches including planning, risk management, stakeholder coordination and go-live execution
Driving supply chain optimisation initiatives including inventory management, S&OP alignment, network planning and cost reduction projects
Developing and maintaining detailed project plans, RAID logs, budgets and executive reporting dashboards
Facilitating cross-functional workshops and ensuring alignment across manufacturing, logistics and commercial teams

About you:

Minimum of 8+ years proven experience in OT/automation roles within dairy, food, pharma, or FMCG, with 3+ years leading teams
Strong expertise in PLC, SCADA, HMI, MES, historians, and industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profinet), with the ability to troubleshoot and optimise OT systems
Experience leading CAPEX, digital transformation, and continuous improvement projects from URS through qualification
Demonstrated ability to manage vendors, contractors, and cross-functional stakeholders effectively
Exposure to industrial cybersecurity, IT/OT integration, and regulated manufacturing environments is highly regarded
Tertiary qualification in Automation, Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Mechatronics, or related discipline preferred