Build your future.

Are you looking for more than just a job?

Do you want a career where you’ll learn every part of a major manufacturing business, develop real leadership skills, and work alongside experienced industry professionals?

We’re searching for our next Management Cadet to join our Te Kuiti team.

This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience across every part of our operation while preparing for future leadership opportunities within one of New Zealand’s leading red meat exporters.

About the Programme

Our structured Management Cadet Programme has been designed to develop tomorrow’s operational leaders.

Over the course of the programme you’ll rotate through key areas of the business, learning first-hand how a modern export processing operation works. You’ll gain practical experience, build technical knowledge, develop leadership capability, and work alongside experienced managers who will mentor you throughout your journey.

You’ll spend time learning areas including:

• Livestock & Stockyards
• Slaughter Operations
• Boning Room
• Production Planning
• Quality Assurance & Food Safety
• Technical & Compliance
• Freezers & Logistics
• Health & Safety
• Recruitment & People Leadership
• Purchasing & Production Support
• Group Support Office functions including Marketing, Finance and Procurement

By the end of the programme, you’ll have developed the knowledge, confidence and practical experience to step into operational leadership roles within our business.

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Passionate about building a long-term career
• Naturally motivated and eager to learn
• A confident communicator
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced operational environment
• Interested in leading people and driving continuous improvement
• Someone who enjoys solving problems and taking initiative

Ideally you’ll have

• Bachelor’s degree or similar, but not essential
• An interest in agriculture, food production or manufacturing
• Farming or customer service experience (advantageous but not essential)
• Good computer skills, particularly Microsoft Excel
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• A willingness to roll up your sleeves and learn from the ground up

Why join Ovation?

As one of New Zealand’s leading red meat processors, we offer genuine career development, supportive leaders, and opportunities to grow across multiple sites and business divisions.

This programme is designed to identify and develop future leaders, giving you exposure to every aspect of our operation while building the skills needed for a successful management career.

If you’re ambitious, enjoy practical learning, and want to make a real impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now

If you’re ready to begin an exciting career with genuine progression opportunities, you can apply by sending your CV to: HR@Ovation.co.nz or as instructed below

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.