Head of Product and Business Improvement, Christchurch
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KiwiRail

Head of Product and Business Improvement

  • Posted 1d ago
  • On Site
  • Full Time
Location

Christchurch

Job Description

  • Lead product development and business improvement strategy for iconic Zealand Tourism brands
  • Lead change, drive growth & redefine travel opportunities.
  • Design the future of travel – lead product and business improvement opportunities


He kōrero mō mātou | About us:

At KiwiRail, we connect New Zealanders sustainably, powering economic growth and ensuring vital freight and passenger services run smoothly. Our mission, "Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand," highlights our dedication to sustainability and community well-being.

Our people make KiwiRail exceptional. By fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace, we empower everyone to contribute their best. If you’re passionate about innovation and safety, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

He whakamārama mo te tūranga mahi | About the role:

Interislander & Great Journeys New Zealand have ambitious growth targets. To enable our success, we have brought together the marketing and sales teams to create Kiwirail Passenger Marketing & Trade teams. We are seeking leaders with extensive experience, to be able to lead strategic growth that aligns with the business commercial goals.

The Head of Product Development & Business Improvement is responsible for leading the strategic direction of product development and operational improvement initiatives across KiwiRail’s GJNZ and tourism passenger services. This role champions the development of world-class, sustainable visitor experiences by aligning customer insights with new and existing products. It oversees the Tour Operations team and leads continuous improvement efforts, working cross-functionally to ensure efficiency, innovation, and long-term commercial success.

Key accountabilities include:

  • Leading business strategy, driving efficiencies and operational excellence
  • Aligning customer insights and market feedback
  • Leading the continuous improvement and launching of new products and offerings and supporting innovation
  • Identifying and leading new or improvement business innovations and initiatives with a continuous improvement focus
  • Leading the team to ensure high-quality service delivery and facilitating cross-functional communication and coordination
  • Collaborating closely with Interislander teams driving share improvement opportunities



Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What (skills) you will bring:

Knowledge and experience

  • You have strong skills in building business cases, cost management, and project prioritisation
  • You’ve led successful change or continuous improvement projects
  • You have experience in product development, business improvement, or tourism strategy
  • You’ve led cross-functional teams, ideally in a customer-centric, service-oriented environment
  • You understand the tourism, transport, or experience-based industry sectors
  • You have experience creating strategic plans that align with business strategy and business goals



Ways of working / Work-related qualities

  • You are a collaborative and strategic thinker
  • You lead with a customer-first mindset, aligning product design with experience goals
  • You are an effective communicator, able to influence across multiple teams
  • You thrive in dynamic environments, balancing creativity with structure
  • You value diversity, innovation, and sustainability in the workplace
  • You have a current and valid NZ Driver’s Licence



Qualifications
A degree in business, tourism, design thinking, or operations


Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you:

  • Competitive salary plus 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution
  • Professional development opportunities to help you grow and succeed
  • Access to NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust benefits, including holiday homes, medical support and discounted travel
  • Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace dedicated to innovation, sustainability and community impact
  • Location options: Wellington, Christchurch or Auckland



Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference?

Rā aukati | Applications Close: Sunday, 27 April 2025

Desired Hard Skills

  • Leadership

Desired Soft Skills

  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Customer Service
  • Communication
  • Marketing
  • Customer experience
  • Tourism business development projects
  • Commercial financial acumen
  • Project lead
  • Digital services and product knowledge

Benefits and Perks

  • 🤱
    Extended Parental Leave
  • 🏘
    Work from Home
  • 🧕
    Inclusive Workspace
  • ❤
    Care and Appreciation
    EAP, Employee Assistance Programme, Study Grants, Travel Privileges on Great Journeys of New Zealand and InterIslander.
  • 🧠
    Mental Health Workshops
  • 💚
    Counselling Services
  • 📈
    Professional Development
  • 🎉
    Employee Discounts and Rewards
    The NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust- The Trust offers reimbursement of medical expenses for members and their families, access to affordable holiday homes, and group discounts on additional insurances.
  • 🎖
    Long Service Rewards
  • 📣
    Referral Bonuses
  • 💻
    Company Supplied Technology
  • ⏰
    Flexible Work
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Sick Leave
  • Extended Annual Leave
  • Wellbeing Support

Job Schedule

  • Shift Work
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