Head of Operational Technology

The Opportunity

This is where technology and manufacturing truly meet.

Our client is one of New Zealand’s leading manufacturers, supplying global markets from right here in Auckland.

They’ve built a strong automation base and are now driving toward full digital integration, where every system, sensor and process works as one.

This role sits at the centre of that transformation. You’ll connect process control, data integrity, and business systems to create a manufacturing environment built on visibility, traceability and performance.

It’s the kind of challenge that defines careers and shapes how modern industry operates.


The Role

You’ll lead the Operational Technology function, setting the direction for how automation and information systems converge across manufacturing.

You’ll work with manufacturing, quality, IT, and leadership teams to deliver a connected, compliant, and future-ready operation.

This isn’t about installing another system, it’s about designing how the entire business runs in a world of data-driven manufacturing and Industry 4.0 capability.

Your focus will include:

• Integrating automation, SCADA, MES, and ERP into a single, cohesive operating model.
• Strengthening data capture and traceability to support compliance and decision-making.
• Guiding the adoption of digital tools that enhance reliability, efficiency and insight.
• Building structure around governance, validation and cybersecurity within OT.
• Staying close to operations, leading a capable team through real system and process challenges, then working across the wider business to embed lasting change.

About You

You understand manufacturing, how plants run, where systems meet process, and how to make technology practical.

You’ve led automation or OT functions before and know how to bridge the space between engineering and IT.

You’ll bring:

• Strong operational technology or automation experience within complex manufacturing.
• Proven success in integrating systems and solving real-world technical challenges.
• Confidence navigating regulated environments with disciplined documentation and validation.
• The ability to engage equally with operators, engineers, contractors and senior leaders.
• A finger on the pulse of Industry 4.0 and advanced manufacturing.
• A forward-looking mindset, ready to build the next generation of digital manufacturing capability.

Why This Role Matters

This is a senior technical leadership role with real impact.

You’ll shape the systems that define how products are made, how data flows and how people work with technology every day.

It’s the bridge between what exists today and what manufacturing will look like tomorrow.


How to Apply

Apply online now, or for further information, contact Theo Lawson on 021 710 743 for a confidential discussion.


Who is Lawson Williams?

At Lawson Williams, we have supported New Zealand’s food, manufacturing, engineering and wider technical businesses for over 30 years.

We work quietly alongside some of the country’s most respected companies to connect them with leaders, technical specialists, and operational professionals who drive performance across operations, manufacturing, supply chain, engineering, quality, and technical sales functions.

For the professionals we work with, a career move through Lawson Williams means joining businesses where you can make a real impact, contribute to business improvement, and continue to grow your career over the long term.

We do not shout about what we do, but the relationships we build and the trust we earn speak for themselves. We look forward to working with you when the time is right.