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We're looking for a driven, people-focused Operations Manager to lead one of Brisbane's most iconic adventure tourism businesses.
This is a high-impact leadership role for someone who thrives in fast-paced environments, enjoys building strong teams, understands operational strategy, and takes pride in delivering exceptional customer experiences.
At Riverlife, we don't just run tours, we create memorable outdoor experiences for schools, tourists, corporate groups, families, and locals right in the heart of Brisbane. From kayaking the Brisbane River to climbing and abseiling Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Riverlife has become an iconic destination for adventure, events, and tourism.
With Brisbane rapidly growing toward the 2032 Olympics, Riverlife is positioned for significant expansion, and this role will play a major part in shaping the future of the business.
What you'll be doing Operations & Team Leadership
Oversee the daily operations of the Adventure Centre to ensure tours, hires, and programs run smoothly and efficiently
Lead and manage instructors and customer service staff across multiple departments
Create strong staff structures, schedules, and systems to optimise performance and labour efficiency
Maintain a positive, energetic, and accountable team culture
Ensure all customer experiences are delivered safely, professionally, and on time
Financial Performance & Strategy
Take ownership of department performance, revenue targets, and operational efficiencies
Focus heavily on improving and maintaining Direct Labour Ratio targets across the business
Analyse staffing structures, booking trends, and operational workflows to improve profitability
Work closely with management on strategic growth opportunities and operational planning
Assist in driving business growth across tours, schools, corporate events, and hires
Proactively identify and convert new enquiries into bookings and long-term partnerships
Work with the sales team to support Riverlife's growth targets, including expanding school excursion programs
Ensure every customer interaction reflects the Riverlife brand and experience
Use Rezdy and other booking/CRM systems to maximise booking efficiency and customer experience
Safety & Site Management
Ensure all OH&S requirements and operational procedures are followed
Maintain equipment, presentation standards, and operational readiness across the site
Ensure activities operate safely and efficiently in changing weather and operational conditions
What we're looking for
Strong leadership and people management skills
Excellent communication and customer service abilities
Commercial awareness with an understanding of operational performance and financial targets
Strategic thinker with the ability to improve systems and efficiencies
Confident decision-maker who performs well under pressure
Highly organised with strong time management skills
Hands‐on attitude and willingness to support the team wherever needed
Positive, energetic, and solutions‐focused mindset
Experience in tourism, hospitality, outdoor recreation, events, or operations management
Previous leadership experience managing teams in fast‐paced environments
Experience with scheduling, staffing, labour management, or operational strategy
Experience using Rezdy or similar booking/CRM systems is highly advantageous
Qualification in tourism, business, management, or related fields is advantageous
Experience with school groups, tours, camps, or activity‐based businesses is highly regarded
Why join Riverlife?
Work with one of Brisbane's most iconic tourism and adventure brands
Be part of an exciting growth phase leading into the 2032 Olympics
Access to Riverlife adventure activities and equipment
Opportunity to shape and improve business operations
Supportive leadership team with room to grow professionally
Bonus structure in place for strong performance
Important to know
This is a full‐time leadership role based at Kangaroo Point, Brisbane
The role includes weekend work and public holidays as required by operations
This is a hands‐on operations role requiring both strategic thinking and day‐to‐day team management
Financial awareness and labour management are important parts of the role, however training and support will be provided for the right candidate
Location: Kangaroo Point, Brisbane QLD
Position: Operations Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time
Unlock job insights
Your application will include the following questions:
* Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?
* How many years of people management experience do you have?
* Do you have experience leading agile teams?
* Which of the following Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems do you have experience using?
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