Company Overview
Operation Flinders exists to be the leading provider of high-quality remote outback adventure programs for young people experiencing challenging life circumstances. Established in 1991, the organisation delivers evidence-based programs designed to build resilience, self-confidence, responsibility and teamwork. Through structured, physically and mentally challenging expeditions in the Flinders Ranges, Operation Flinders provides a proven psychological circuit breaker that supports positive behavioural change. The organisation is community-driven, volunteer-supported and recognised for achieving meaningful, long-term outcomes for young people.
Role Overview
This newly created position will provide strategic leadership across programs, logistics, work health and safety, and operational systems to ensure safe, high-quality service delivery. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the role leads operational planning, performance management, risk and compliance frameworks. This role is accountable for embedding best-practice governance, strengthening operational capability and fostering a strong safety-first culture whilst supporting organisational sustainability and continuous improvement.
Key responsibilities include:-
* Providing executive leadership across operational decision-making, risk management, and compliance;
* Leading operational planning, performance frameworks and continuous improvement initiatives;
* Ensuring safe, trauma-aware, and compliant program delivery across portfolios;
* Strengthening work health and safety governance, systems, and reporting practices;
* Overseeing logistics, facilities and infrastructure planning to support service delivery;
* Building collaborative relationships across programs, people and support functions;
* Embedding consistent governance, accountability and decision-making frameworks;
* Driving workforce planning, succession and leadership capability development;
* Supporting organisational sustainability through effective resource and systems management;
Skills, Knowledge, and Experience
The successful candidate will demonstrate senior operational leadership experience managing complex, multi-disciplinary portfolios within high-risk or community-focused environments. Strong capability in operational governance, risk management, financial oversight and performance improvement is essential. Tertiary qualifications in education, community services, risk management, or a related discipline are required. Non-negotiable requirements include a current Working with Children Check, the ability to work flexible hours, undertake travel and complete mandatory assessments and compliance checks.
Applications
To submit your application, in strict confidence, please apply online using the appropriate link below. Alternatively, for a confidential discussion, please contact Andrew Sullivan on Applications close on Friday, 30 January 2026.