Automated Distribution Centre Manager

Asahi Beverages; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Asahi Beverages in Melbourne is launching a brand-new, highly automated Distribution Centre, moving from construction to operation. You will shape commissioning, testing, training and readiness before leading the site through ramp-up into business-as-usual, owning safety, service, cost, inventory and automation.

Based at Southbank VIC Project Office initially, the role will transition to Deer Park in 2027; a sustainable commute should be considered.

Qualifications

• Proven track record leading large teams in automated warehousing.
• Experience driving end-to-end site readiness and ramp-up.
• Strong ability to influence stakeholders and manage budgets.
• Technical knowledge of automated material flow and warehouse systems.

Responsibilities

• Build a high-performing site team and cross-functional partner model.
• Own end-to-end ADC performance across safety, service, cost, and productivity.
• Lead operational readiness through commissioning, ramp-up and stabilisation.
• Implement operating model and drive recruitment and workforce transition.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering, IT/OT and Transport to ensure resilience.
• Drive continuous improvement and automation lifecycle planning.

Skills

People leadership

Senior operations

Stakeholder management

Commercial acumen

Strategic thinking

Automation systems

Data analysis

Job description

Make your mark on a brand-new, highly automated Distribution Centre as it moves from construction into operation. Joining well before go-live, you’ll build your team and help shape commissioning, testing, training and operational readiness before leading the site through ramp-up and into business-as-usual. From there, you'll have ownership across safety, service, cost, inventory, people and automation, you’ll establish a positive culture and strong performance foundations and then lead the DC to long-term success.

Please note: This role will initially be based at our Southbank, VIC Project Office. The role will Transition to Deer Park permanently in 2027. A sustainable commute to Deer Park, VIC should be considered as part of your application for this role

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Build a high-performing, values-led site team and cross-functional partner model that strengthens automation reliability, operational resilience, continuous improvement and long-term network value.
• Own end-to-end ADC performance across safety, service, cost, quality, inventory, productivity, throughput, automation availability and customer outcomes.
• Lead operational readiness through workforce design, commissioning, ramp-up and stabilisation, delivering a controlled transition into business-as-usual operations.
• Implement the operating model and drive recruitment, organisational structure, workforce transition, training and standard of work required for a highly automated environment.
• Drive aligned performance by working closely with Manufacturing Operations, Engineering and Maintenance, IT/OT, People & Corporate Affairs and Transport Network Operations to ensure sustained resilience of the network and service delivery through to our customers.
• Strengthen operational resilience through effective incident response, degraded-mode operations, recovery planning, continuous improvement and automation lifecycle planning.

ABOUT YOU:

• People and values-focused leadership with a track record of building high-performing teams, fostering a positive culture, strengthening engagement and accountability, and supporting strong retention.
• Proven senior operational experience in large-scale automated warehousing, logistics, manufacturing or comparable environments.
• Strong stakeholder influence and negotiation skills, with the ability to navigate complex operational, technical and partner relationships.
• Commercial acumen across P&L, budgets, productivity, cost structures and benefit realisation.
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement, supported by data analysis, structured problem-solving and continuous improvement.
• Technical knowledge of automated material flow, throughput, availability, failure modes, recovery protocols and integrated warehouse systems.

WHY ASAHI BEVERAGES?

At Asahi Beverages, we're passionate about crafting more than just drinks - we craft moments of connection, celebration and shared enjoyment. We bring together a diverse portfolio of iconic beverage brands, a commitment to quality and a drive to constantly innovate. Headquartered in Melbourne and with facilities right across Australia and New Zealand, you will find Asahi is a place where talent is nurtured and ambition is rewarded. If you are ready to toast your future, we are ready to meet you.