South Island Area Manager

• Lead a South Island team and drive regional training strategy
• Flexible remote role + vehicle, health cover & professional development
• Make a real impact on apprentices and industry trainees

We are seeking an experienced South Island Area Manager to lead our clients South Island team and champion the growth of industry training across the region. This is a strategic, hands-on leadership role for someone ready to immerse themselves in the industry and make a tangible difference for Industry Trainees and New Zealand Apprentices.

While this is a work from home role, the successful candidate will be based in either Christchurch or Dunedin to enable close proximity to the team.

About the role

Reporting to senior leadership, you’ll guide the South Island team to achieve business plans and sales targets while promoting training excellence. You’ll provide direction, guidance, and support to a close-knit, high-performing team of 6 direct reports, ensuring they thrive in a collaborative and positive culture.

This role combines strategic thinking with operational delivery. You’ll build strong relationships with client companies, industry stakeholders, training providers and other key partners to drive engagement, growth, and performance across the South Island.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and support the South Island team to deliver on business plans and sales targets
• Promote & represent industry training and apprenticeships across the region
• Oversee the implementation, growth, and management of Industry Trainees and New Zealand Apprentices
• Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including L&D professionals, HR teams, and client companies
• Provide clear direction and guidance while fostering a positive, collaborative team culture
• Ensure efficient office administration systems and processes are in place and operating effectively
• Drive commercial growth through expansion of trainee numbers and new customer engagement
• Monitor performance, report on outcomes, and drive continuous improvement
• Occasional travel and overnight stays around New Zealand will be required due to the nature of the role.

About you

You’re a confident leader who can balance people leadership, commercial focus, and strategic insight. You thrive on learning and understanding new industries, are passionate about workforce development, and enjoy working with a diverse range of stakeholders.

You’ll bring:

• Previous management experience at a mid to senior level
• Knowledge of NZQA and industry training processes and procedures
• Experience in learning and development, including developing, coordinating, or delivering training programmes
• Experience working with a diverse range of people and stakeholders
• Strong relationship-building and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to give direction, motivate a team, and maintain a positive team culture
• Experience in roles with a sales and/or marketing focus, including achieving targets
• Knowledge of the infrastructure industry (highly desirable)
• Understanding of adult education principles
• Experience managing efficient office administration systems
• Sound computer literacy and experience with relevant business applications
• A current, clean, full Class 1 driver’s licence.

What’s in it for you?

• Remote role with flexibility – work from home
• Competitive salary, company vehicle, and other great benefits
• Joining a supportive, values-driven team
• Lead a team of 6 direct reports and shape the South Island region’s workforce strategy.

If you’re hungry to learn, lead, and make a real difference in industry training, I want to hear from you.

Apply now or reach out for a confidential discussion.

Your People Recruitment
Mel Bentley – Your Top Talent Go To - Fuelling Career Connections
027-713-7005 | mel@yourpeople.co.nz