This is a standout opportunity for an experienced HR professional to step into a trusted role within a privately owned, values‑driven organisation.  Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you’ll act as a strategic sounding board and practical delivery lead across all people matters. You’ll balance forward‑thinking HR advice with a strong on‑the‑ground presence, supporting leaders and teams while ensuring the fundamentals are done well.

This role will suit someone who brings maturity, sound judgement and confidence and who is equally comfortable engaging at a strategic level or rolling up their sleeves to help the business get things done.

You’ll take ownership of the full employee lifecycle, building on established HR frameworks and shaping how people and capability are managed.  While this is a senior role with influence, it sits within a practical, no‑nonsense environment where people muck in and pitch together; so you will also help with broader support to the business and see this as an opportunity to get close to the action, rather than not wanting to be in the detail.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end HR across recruitment, onboarding, ER, performance management and offboarding
• Coach and guide operational leaders on people capability, performance and engagement
• Manage payroll processing (AgriSmart) and associated HR administration
• Manage significant FMG and insurance claims, including liaison, documentation and follow‑up
• Support remuneration, performance and reward frameworks
• Undertake discreet minute‑taking and administration for sensitive matters (e.g. disciplinary processes, commercial and land transactions)
• Work closely with the Managing Director, offering trusted advice, pragmatic challenge and steady support

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience as a senior or standalone HR generalist
• Strong grounding in employment relations and operational HR
• Experience in agriculture, horticulture, or construction preferred
• Confidence and credibility to hold your ground and provide reasoned pushback
• Digitally capable, with the ability to optimise systems and explore new tools, including AI
• Highly organised, outcomes‑focused and commercially aware
• Trusted with confidential matters and exercise sound judgement at all times
• Working health and safety knowledge sufficient to support site activity and liaison

Your Style & Mindset

• Calm, grounded and decidedly not precious
• Comfortable leading from the front while staying connected to day‑to‑day realities
• Happy to muck in, admin included, and see it as part of effective leadership
• Practical, solutions‑focused and steady under pressure
• Always looking for ways to lift capability and improve how things are done

Why This Role?

• Senior, high‑trust position working directly with the MD
• Real scope to influence and shape HR in a complex, operational business
• Honest work, real responsibility and no corporate fluff

If you’re an experienced HR professional looking for a role where you can truly add value, build trust, and make your mark, we’d love to hear from you.  Apply online now or give Julie a call on 021 456 053 to discuss in further detail.

Please note that CVs should be in MS-Word format where possible.  Also, you must already hold an NZ Passport or valid working visa to be considered for this role.

www.sagely.co.nz