Strategic Operations Leader - Manufacturing & Projects

Talent Right; Picton; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Protoblast, an established Australian manufacturer, seeks an experienced Operations Manager to lead manufacturing, projects and service delivery. You will champion structured processes, coach leaders and drive continuous improvement across the business to sustain growth and profitability.

You will work closely with production, engineering and administration to optimize resource usage, improve systems and ensure exceptional customer outcomes. A commercially minded leader is essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Operations/Manufacturing leadership roles.
• Strong manufacturing, engineering, fabrication or project-based operations experience.
• Demonstrated success leading teams and driving operational performance.
• Experience implementing process improvement and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong commercial awareness and understanding of operational metrics.
• Comfortable leading change in family-owned or owner-led environments.
• Exposure to Lean Manufacturing/Operational Excellence programs desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations across manufacturing, projects and service delivery.
• Coach, mentor and develop operational leaders and team members.
• Drive accountability and performance across departments.
• Oversee production scheduling and project delivery outcomes.
• Improve operational systems, processes and reporting capabilities.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives and Lean manufacturing efforts.
• Monitor KPIs, productivity and resource utilisation.
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement and service teams for project execution.
• Support workforce planning and capability development.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, profitability and customer outcomes.
• Position the business for future growth and scalability.

Skills

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Continuous improvement

Project management

Manufacturing operations

Engineering collaboration

People management

Strategic planning

Change management

Commercial awareness

Job description

Protoblast, an established Australian manufacturer, seeks an experienced Operations Manager to lead manufacturing, projects and service delivery. You will champion structured processes, coach leaders and drive continuous improvement across the business to sustain growth and profitability.

You will work closely with production, engineering and administration to optimize resource usage, improve systems and ensure exceptional customer outcomes. A commercially minded leader is essential.