General Manager Processing

Our Client
Mt Cook Alpine Salmon is a world leading producer of premium New Zealand King Salmon, renowned globally for its exceptional quality, sustainability and provenance. Operating from the pristine glacial waters of the Mackenzie Basin, the company produces some of the world’s finest freshwater salmon, enjoyed by discerning customers throughout New Zealand and international markets.
  
With a strong commitment to quality, innovation and environmental stewardship, Mt Cook Alpine Salmon has established a reputation as one of New Zealand’s most distinctive aquaculture businesses. Their fully integrated operation spans salmon farming, harvesting, processing, distribution, sales and marketing, ensuring exceptional quality from source to customer.
  
As the business continues to grow and evolve, Mt Cook Alpine Salmon is seeking an experienced and commercially astute leader to join the Senior Leadership Team. To find out more visit https://alpinesalmon.co.nz/
  
The Opportunity
Located in Timaru (or Christchurch) and reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the ‘General Manager Processing’ will provide strategic and operational leadership across all processing activities, including primary processing, smoking and value-added products.
  
This role will develop and execute the processing strategy, establishing clear plans, performance measures and improvement initiatives that support the ongoing growth and success of the business. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for translating organisational strategy into operational excellence, ensuring processing operations deliver against customer expectations, production requirements, quality standards and financial objectives.
  
As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will also contribute to wider organisational strategy, providing insight and advice on operational performance, risks, opportunities and investment decisions. Working collaboratively across farming, supply chain, commercial and quality functions, you will ensure alignment and maximise value throughout the business.
  
Leading a skilled processing team, you will foster a high performing, values driven culture while championing health and safety, food safety, quality and operational excellence.
  
Skills and Experience
This role will suit an experienced senior operations leader with a strong background in food manufacturing, processing, FMCG or a similar complex production environment. You will have proven experience leading large-scale operations, improving performance, and delivering growth and continuous improvement, within a quality focused and regulated setting.
  
You will bring strong commercial capability, including experience managing budgets, improving efficiencies, optimising labour and plant utilisation, reducing waste, enhancing operational outcomes and leading strategic initiatives. A sound understanding of food safety systems, regulatory requirements, export standards and quality frameworks will be highly valued.
  
You will be an authentic and engaging leader, capable of building strong relationships, developing teams and creating accountability at all levels. With a balance of strategic thinking and practical operational expertise, you will have the credibility and influence to work with internal teams, customers, suppliers, regulators and industry stakeholders to deliver results in a dynamic environment.
  
The Location
This role is ideally based in Timaru, providing close connection to the processing operation and the wider Mt Cook Alpine Salmon team. Timaru offers an outstanding lifestyle, combining the convenience of a thriving regional centre with easy access to the Southern Alps, Mackenzie Country, lakes and coastline. https://www.venturetimaru.nz/
  
Christchurch may also be considered for the right candidate, offering the opportunity to join a world-class New Zealand food business while enjoying the career and lifestyle opportunities available in Canterbury. https://www.christchurchnz.com/
  
To view the job description please copy and paste this link into your browser: https://bit.ly/460Izaa
  
Apply Now
If you feel you possess the above qualities and are looking for a senior leadership opportunity where you can make a meaningful impact within a premium New Zealand export business, prepare your cover letter and CV and click the ‘Apply’ button. Confidential initial enquiries are welcome by phoning David Clausen at Brannigans p. [03 345 8762](tel:03 345 8762).
 
Application for this role close Monday 28 September 2026.