Location: New Zealand
About us:
3 Islands Intermodal is a leading New Zealand intermodal logistics company comprising of four divisions: Ports, Inland Logistics, Retail Freight Forwarding and Wholesale Air Freight.
3 Islands has operations at nine ports, six inland depots and two airports across New Zealand, offering its customers a comprehensive range of logistics services to fulfil their import and export ambitions to and from any region of New Zealand.
Unique amongst its competitors, it is 100% Kiwi-owned and has a proud culture focused on safety, upskilling and a flat, solutions-driven management approach. Among its employee benefits, all 3 Islands employees participate in the success of the group as beneficiaries of the Employee Trust, which owns 7.5% of the group businesses.
3 Islands is continuing to experience strong growth throughout its nationwide, intermodal network and, in response, is building out its team in every region to respond to customer demand to evolve the logistics industry, driven by a spirit of safety, efficiency and innovation.
As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for our Ports & Logistics divisions, you will play a pivotal role in steering the strategic direction and operational excellence of our logistics services in New Zealand. Your leadership will be crucial in enhancing our market position, driving growth, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to our customers. This permanent, full-time role requires a visionary leader with extensive executive experience in the logistics sector.
Key responsibilities include:
- Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance operational efficiency and profitability of the Ports & Logistics divisions
- Lead and inspire a diverse team, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
- Oversee the management of port operations and logistics services, ensuring compliance with industry regulations
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, unions, regulators and other government agencies
- Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify opportunities for growth
- Ensure financial performance meets or exceeds company targets through effective budgeting and resource allocation
- Represent the company at industry events and conferences, promoting our services and capabilities
- Maintain health and safety, regulatory and compliance standards in all activities
About you:
- Tertiary qualified, ideally with a business administration, logistics or other related field qualification
- 20+ years in ports, logistics or other industrial supply chain businesses, with strong leadership and team management experience gained in New Zealand or offshore (you may already have some connection to NZ)
- Proven ability to lead large teams, complex businesses, implement strategies and continuously self-improve
- Deep understanding of NZ logistics/supply chain landscape and the infrastructure challenges to deliver cost-effective solutions for customers with a view to achieving international best practice
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders, including capital markets or other public-related ownership experience
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on results
This is a unique opportunity to join one of New Zealand’s leading intermodal logistics companies with ambitious growth plans. You will have the chance to influence, shape, and drive the business, playing a key role as 3 Islands continues to scale its intermodal platform nationwide.
If you would like to be part of a leading intermodal logistics business where culture is central to our success and have the opportunity for equity participation, we would like to hear from you. We welcome interest from New Zealanders currently working offshore who are considering a return home, New Zealanders currently working in New Zealand at the top of their game, and we would consider candidates with international experience who might have a connection to NZ.
How to apply
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and make a real impact, click Apply Now and submit your CV and cover letter
Candidates must have legal rights to work in New Zealand.
Application Close: 04/03/2026
