Stand Forestry formed from the merge of PF Olsen and Forest360, has become New Zealand’s largest forestry management company and, in doing so, has positioned us to be bigger, better and stronger, with an exciting future ahead. We have a team of passionate forest professionals spanning the nation, dedicated to delivering innovative, best-in-class solutions for our valued clients.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Harvest Manager to lead safe, compliant and high-quality harvesting operations within the Gisborne area. This role is responsible for planning and delivering harvest operations that support strong client outcomes, operational profitability, sustainable land use and best-practice forest management.

You will work closely with contractors, internal teams, sawmills, log buyers to ensure harvesting, transport and log sales are coordinated efficiently and delivered to the required safety, environmental, quality and commercial standards.

 What you’ll be doing

• Developing and managing harvest plans, including supporting regulatory applications and ensuring crews comply with approved conditions.
• Managing contractor performance across safety, cost, quality, productivity, reliability and compliance.
• Monitoring operational performance and adjusting plans to achieve agreed outcomes.
• Coordinating harvesting, transport and log sales activity with contractors, sawmills and log buyers.
• Maintaining strong environmental performance through site monitoring, audits, incident reporting and escalation of non-compliance.
• Ensuring operations meet relevant legislative and company requirements, including environmental, health and safety, and forestry standards.
• Maintaining accurate records and supporting timely financial and operational reporting.
• A willingness to learn client budgeting and reporting requirements would be an advantage but is not essential.

Qualifications & experience

• 5+ years experience in the forestry industry experience, including harvesting operations, harvest planning and execution.
• Strong knowledge of environmental best practice, health and safety requirements and operational compliance.
• Degree in Forestry, Forestry Science, or a related field desirable but not essential
• Experience managing contractors and monitoring field-based operational performance.
• Sound understanding of quality assurance processes and operational procedures.
• Strong communication, relationship management and problem-solving skills.
• Confidence using Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and Word would be an advantage.

What we offer

• Competitive salary + medical insurance
• Career growth — opportunities to progress within our thriving business
• Supportive culture — be part of a team that values collaboration, flexibility, and continuous learning
• Work with those who want to be the best in the industry
• Join a supportive, skilled team
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression
• Be part of a business that values innovation, people, and long-term sustainability

If you’re looking for a role where you can make an impact, develop your skills, and be part of an exciting, growing industry — we’d love to hear from you!