Operations Manager – Twelve Apostles Precinct

About the role

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is seeking a hands‑on Operations Manager to lead day‑to‑day performance of the Twelve Apostles Precinct, including the newly built Visitor Experience Centre. This senior leadership position ensures safe, efficient and world‑class operation of a high‑profile tourism destination while protecting its natural, cultural and environmental values.

Key responsibilities

• Lead daily precinct operations, maintaining a safe, compliant and visitor‑ready environment, especially during peak periods and major events.
• Act as the primary escalation point for incidents, applying sound judgement to resolve issues and drive continuous improvement.
• Oversee maintenance, presentation and functionality of assets and infrastructure, coordinating planned, preventative and reactive works alongside capital projects.
• Manage public amenities, pathways, parking and landscaped areas to high standards.
• Supervise contractors and service providers (cleaning, waste, maintenance, security, traffic), monitoring performance and fostering effective relationships.
• Develop and implement traffic, parking and crowd‑management strategies, adapting in real time to maintain safe visitor flow.
• Plan operational readiness for peak seasons and events, support emergency management and ensure legislative compliance.
• Identify, assess and mitigate operational risks, provide regular performance reporting and support budget management.

Required profile

• Proven experience in senior operational leadership within high‑volume, complex environments.
• Strong ability to translate strategic priorities into seamless operational delivery.
• Demonstrated competence in managing contractors, budgets and large‑scale projects.
• Excellent judgment in incident escalation and risk mitigation.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including Traditional Owners and community groups.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive annual package of $136,969 – $171,745 plus superannuation.
• Opportunity to lead operations at one of Australia’s iconic tourism destinations.
• Supportive work environment focused on sustainability and conservation.