Title:  Product Development Manager

Product Development Manager 

Position Description

• Strategise and analyse
• Contribute to positioning KiwiRail competitively
• Permanent, Auckland based

He kōrero mō mātou | About us:

At KiwiRail, we connect New Zealanders sustainably, powering economic growth and ensuring vital freight and passenger services run smoothly. Our mission, "Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand," highlights our dedication to sustainability and community well-being. 

Our people make KiwiRail exceptional. By fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace, we empower everyone to contribute their best. If you’re passionate about innovation and safety, we’d love to welcome you aboard. 

He whakamārama mo te tūranga mahi | About the role:

The Product Development Manager plays a pivotal role in growing KiwiRail’s market presence and product offering within the rail freight industry. This role is responsible for identifying key market segments, developing tailored products, and driving commercial performance through strategic planning, market insight, and cross-functional collaboration. The position ensures that KiwiRail’s freight products meet customer needs, remain competitive, and contribute to the organisation’s long-term growth and profitability.

Within the area of responsibility, this role is required to:

• Develop and execute segment strategies to increase market share and customer engagement in targeted rail freight sectors
• Lead the development, enhancement, and lifecycle management of freight products, ensuring alignment with market needs and KiwiRail’s strategic objectives
• Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify opportunities for innovation and product differentiation
• Partner with sales, operations, and marketing teams to ensure successful product launches, positioning, and performance
• Monitor segment and product performance, analysing key data to drive insights and recommend improvements
• Translate customer insights into actionable product and service improvements that enhance value and satisfaction

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What (skills) you will bring:

Knowledge and experience

• You’re experienced in managing market segments and commercial product portfolios
• You have 5–7 years’ experience in product management, commercial strategy, or freight/logistics
• You can analyse market data and turn insights into actionable decisions
• You’re skilled in stakeholder engagement across diverse teams
• You understand the transport or supply chain industry and emerging customer needs

Ways of working / Work-related qualities

• You prioritise safety and act with integrity in all commercial decisions
• You communicate clearly and tailor your message to diverse stakeholders
• You take ownership of challenging goals and lead with a proactive mindset
• You collaborate effectively and build strong partnerships across functions
• You seek innovative solutions and are responsive to customer and market signals

Other Requirements

• You can travel domestically for customer and market engagements
• You have a current and valid NZ Driver’s Licence

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Marketing, Logistics, or a related field Or
• Equivalent experience in market strategy, commercial planning or freight product development And
• You hold relevant industry certifications

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you:

• Competitive salary plus 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution
• 25 annual leave days
• Professional development opportunities to help you grow and succeed
• Access to NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust benefits, including holiday homes, medical support and discounted travel
• Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace dedicated to innovation, sustainability and community impact

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference?

Rā aukati | Applications close:  21 August 2025