Expedition Operations Manager

About the role

Coral Expeditions, part of the NRMA Group, is looking for an experienced leader to join its shoreside operations team as Expedition Operations Manager. Reporting to the Strategic Operations Manager, this Head of Department role leads and develops the expedition teams across the fleet, supporting a large and diverse workforce including Expedition Leaders, Assistant Expedition Leaders, Crew, Dive Teams, Guest Lecturers and Special Hosts. It covers operational standards, safety, workforce capability, succession planning and guest experience.

Key responsibilities

• Lead expedition operations across the fleet and maintain operational standards, procedures and service frameworks
• Conduct vessel visits, operational reviews and onboard assessments, driving corrective actions and continuous improvement
• Champion a strong safety culture and compliance with operational, environmental and WHS requirements
• Lead, develop and support a geographically dispersed workforce, including recruitment, onboarding, coaching, performance management, succession planning and employee relations
• Manage workforce planning, rostering, qualifications and First Nations employment initiatives
• Review guest feedback and quality metrics, and support new itineraries, activities and interpretation programs
• Support departmental budgeting, forecasting and cost management, and contribute to strategic projects and product development

Required profile

• 10+ years in tourism, expedition cruising, hospitality, marine operations, logistics or similar service-based operations
• Experience managing teams of 15+ employees across multiple locations and leading geographically dispersed teams
• Proven leadership, coaching and mentoring ability, and experience in performance management and succession planning
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma or equivalent in Leadership and Management highly regarded
• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE) or equivalent training experience
• Previous expedition cruising, tourism, hospitality or guest experience leadership experience highly regarded
• Australian residency required, with substantial Australian work experience

Required skills

• Workforce planning, recruitment, rostering and change management
• Advanced Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams) and SharePoint
• Strong commercial, analytical and decision-making skills

What we offer

• Progressive flexibility, leave and well-being benefits
• Travel discounts on SIXT car rental, cruises and accommodation at NRMA Holiday Parks and Resorts
• Complimentary myNRMA membership with roadside assistance and discounts
• Discounts on NRMA personal insurance products