Technical Manager

Company overview

Neptune Pacific is in a major growth and transformation phase after its 2020 acquisition of Pacific Direct Line, combining two leading South Pacific shipping and logistics businesses to provide integrated supply chain services across the region. The organisation is expanding its network and capabilities throughout the Pacific and beyond, and it operates as part of The Wonderful Company, based in Los Angeles, California.

The Wonderful Company’s portfolio includes FIJI Water, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, Landmark Vineyards, Wonderful Citrus, Wonderful Pistachios, Teleflora, POM Wonderful and Suterra.

Role summary

This position is for a Technical Manager focused on Equipment Maintenance & Repair (EMR). The role is responsible for setting and controlling technical standards across a multi-site network, improving repair quality, guiding offhire and disposal decisions, and strengthening recovery outcomes across the container fleet.

Reporting to the Group Depot & Transport Manager, you will establish the frameworks that govern EMR activity and ensure they are consistently followed across all depots. The role also requires oversight of fleet performance, with a strong emphasis on improving reefer reliability, identifying recurring issues, and driving practical fixes.

You will also build and maintain the technical structure for cost recovery, including rules, evidence expectations, and escalation routes that support recovery of third-party damage costs. In addition, you will lead the EMR Specialist function by setting priorities and controlling execution, while training delivery remains within the specialist team.

This is a core operational governance role rather than a fleet strategy or deployment role. The focus is on how the fleet is maintained, repaired, documented, and controlled to deliver better operational and commercial results.

Key responsibilities

• Define and maintain EMR standards and technical governance across the network.
• Set the rules that guide repair, offhire, and disposal decisions.
• Ensure technical standards are applied consistently across all depots.
• Monitor fleet performance and take a lead role in improving reefer reliability.
• Investigate systemic technical issues and drive resolution plans.
• Develop the technical framework for cost recovery, including evidence and escalation requirements.
• Support recovery of third-party damage costs through clear and robust controls.
• Lead and prioritise the EMR Specialist team while overseeing execution quality.
• Promote consistent technical decision-making across multiple locations and geographies.
• Maintain strong safety, operational discipline, and documentation standards.

Requirements

• IICL certification is preferred.
• At least 10 years of experience in container maintenance and repair, depot operations, or a fleet-focused operational environment.
• Strong knowledge of EMR systems, controls, and audit processes.
• Solid experience in container survey work, repairs, and estimate checking/validation.
• Proven ability to influence people and outcomes across varied teams.
• Experience working in multi-site and/or multi-country operations.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and communication skills.
• High attention to detail and strong technical documentation capability.
• Hands-on approach to operational improvement.
• Ability to work independently across several geographies.
• Strong commitment to safety, consistency, and operational excellence.
• Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand at the time of applying.
• May be required to complete a Police Check and/or Pre-Employment Drug Test.

Perks and benefits

• Competitive compensation package with salary plus bonus.
• Hybrid working arrangement.
• Opportunities for professional development and internal mobility.
• Wonderful Giving, which allows employees to direct company funds to a charity or cause of their choice.
• Wonderful Neighbour, offering a paid day to support community service projects.
• Health- and wellness-focused workplace culture.

Additional information

This is a permanent role based in Auckland, New Zealand. It offers a high-impact opportunity for a senior technical professional to shape standards, improve discipline, and influence performance across the wider business.

Candidates who are passionate about technical leadership, operational excellence, and capability building in high-performing teams are encouraged to apply.

EEO notice: the employer states that equal employment opportunity information is available under the law.