Operations Manager

AAco; Mount Isa City; On-site; AUD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Headingly Station is seeking an Operations Manager to lead and develop the station team, drive livestock performance and ensure safe, efficient operations. You will work closely with the Senior Station Manager to advance business objectives, safety, and environmental stewardship across the property.

You will bring proven operation leadership in cattle station settings, strong planning and stakeholder management, and a proactive approach to continuous improvement and risk mitigation.

Qualifications

• Experience in managing station operations and livestock performance.
• Demonstrated leadership and ability to develop high-performing teams.
• Strong planning, stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Experience implementing quality assurance and safety management systems.
• Sound computer skills including MS Office and relevant software.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop station staff and contractors.
• Coordinate daily station operations and workforce planning.
• Support budgeting, reporting and operational planning activities.
• Oversee assets, maintenance programs and infrastructure projects.
• Drive compliance with safety, animal welfare and quality standards.
• Contribute to sustainable land management and environmental stewardship.
• Foster a positive team culture aligned with AACo values.

Skills

Livestock operations

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

Safety management

Education

First Aid Certificate

Tools

Microsoft Office

Livestock management systems

Job description

An exciting opportunity has become available for an Operations Manager to join the team at Headingly Station. This role is ideal for someone looking to build on their leadership capability, expand their operational experience and further their career within AACo. Working closely with the Senior Station Manager, you'll gain exposure to all aspects of station management while contributing to the performance, people and long-term success of the property.

Who we are

Established in 1824, Australian Agricultural Company (AACo) is one of Australia's largest integrated cattle and beef producers and is the country's oldest continuously operating company. Today, AACo owns and operates a strategic balance of stations, feedlots and farms spanning approximately 6.5 million hectares of land across Queensland and the Northern Territory. Our people manage a large-scale Wagyu herd, producing consistently high-quality branded beef distributed to over 20 countries around the world.

We are fostering a culture that values safety, inclusion and opportunity, and are committed to integrating care for our people, animals and land into the way we do business - Reimagining Australian agriculture to share with the world - and we'd love you to join us.

About the Role

As Operations Manager, you will be responsible for supporting the safe and efficient delivery of station operations, while helping to drive livestock performance, develop people and achieve business objectives.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and developing station staff and contractors.
• Supporting livestock management and animal husbandry programs.
• Coordinating daily station operations and workforce planning.
• Managing station assets, maintenance programs and infrastructure projects.
• Supporting budgeting, reporting and operational planning activities.
• Driving compliance with AACo's safety, animal welfare, biosecurity and quality assurance standards.
• Contributing to sustainable land management and environmental stewardship.
• Fostering a positive team culture aligned with AACo values.

What We're Looking For

We're seeking a motivated leader who is passionate about the industry and committed to developing both people and operational performance.

You will bring:

• Strong experience in livestock and station operations, including cattle herd, pasture and water management.
• Demonstrated leadership capability with the ability to develop and lead high-performing teams.
• Strong communication, planning and stakeholder management skills.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving, continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Experience implementing quality assurance, animal welfare and safety management systems.
• Sound computer skills, including Microsoft Office and livestock management systems.
• A strong commitment to safety, environmental stewardship and AACo values.
• Current First Aid Certificate.
• Current unrestricted Driver's Licence (heavy vehicle licence advantageous).
• Firearms Licence (Classes A & B).
• Chemical Users Accreditation.

Why Headingly?

Headingly offers a unique lifestyle and career opportunity, combining operational responsibility with the support and development opportunities that come from being part of AACo.

• Spend your downtime fishing or waterskiing in the permanent waterholes along the Georgina River.
• Enjoy access to Mount Isa and regional events, offering the perfect balance of station life and community connection.
• Be part of a welcoming and supportive team that genuinely enjoys working together.
• Continue building your leadership capability through hands‑on experience and development opportunities.
• Expand your network and exposure across the broader AACo operation.
• Contribute to a property that plays an important role in AACo's breeding and backgrounding network.