Are you looking for your next opportunity in coach-based tourism?  

Reporting to the Coach Operations Manager, a brand-new management position has been created in our coaching division to ensure that we have operational management coverage at all times, as well as providing day to day training and support to our coach drivers.

This role will assist the Coach Operations Manager with the daily running of Queenstown coaches and will also provide managerial coverage on the operations managers days off, when they are in Milford on project work, and to cover sick and annual leave as required. 

The successful applicant will be a highly experienced Milford Sound coach driver, able to train and coach drivers towards optimal driving techniques as required. You will drive a coach on the Milford Day Trip a couple of days per week, with the rest of the time spent office based in Queenstown

The role encompasses a variety of operational tasks, including driver and coach park liaison. You will be able to deal with potential emergency situations should they arise on your watch, in conjunction with the senior management team. 

The coach operations manager will produce the rosters, but you will be able to manage any last-minute changes required due to sickness.

You will liaise with reservations and coach drivers as required to ensure smooth service and a great customer experience. You will also build a relationship with the Stores manager in Milford to manage any freight issues that arise.

As required, you will assist with administration tasks as required, such as payroll, road user charges, driver licences, uniform distribution.

In this position you will be paid an on-on call allowance to compensate for being called out of hours, as well as a pay rate commensurate with a leadership role.

Candidate Requirements

Qualifications and Education

- Clean New Zealand Drivers Licence with Class 4 endorsement and a P endorsement

Experience

- Previous relevant experience in dispatch, operational support, training, and assessment in a commercial transport operation

- Significant prior driving experience in Class 4 vehicles

- Basic mechanical knowledge of coach equipment and accessories

- Knowledge and experience of the Queenstown to Milford journey and Southern region roads and weather

Personal Attributes and Skills

- Customer service focused and results-oriented

- Confident, proactive, uses initiative

- Excellent relationship building skills

- Ability to operate independently and as a team

- Respect for co-workers and their opinions

- Receptive to new ideas and willing to embrace change

- Ability to train, and provide constructive feedback

- Ability to multi-task, prioritise and problem solve

- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail

- Excellent communication skills

- Computer literate in a Microsoft environment, able to pick up and use new systems

- Calm under pressure

  

Southern Discoveries is New Zealand’s leading tourism company, specialising in unforgettable experiences in the breathtaking Fiordland region and Milford Sound. 

With over 60 years of expertise, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer service and sustainable tourism practices. Our offerings include scenic cruises and coach tours, designed to connect visitors with the natural beauty and rich history of our land. 

As a family-owned business, we are committed to preserving the pristine environment of our region while creating memorable experiences for our guests.  Our company values are passion for our people and customers, innovation, and the environment. Our people are what brings those values to life, and we are committed to supporting you at Southern Discoveries through training, coaching, and creating a safe and welcoming environment.

Mission Statement 

To be outstanding hosts and connect visitors with our magnificent southern landscapes and stories.