Overview
Your Employer
Our client is a financially robust and highly respected Australian owned business that leads a niche, profitable export operation. With a long-standing reputation for sustainability, scientific research, and operational integrity, they maintain strong relationships with regulators, industry stakeholders, and international buyers. Based in Cairns, the company operates under a unique quota-based model, supported by a close-knit, long-serving team and guided by a hands-on board. Their high-performance culture is grounded in transparency, collaboration, and respect.
The Role
This CEO role offers a once-in-a-career opportunity to lead a premium export business with end-to-end operational responsibility. You’ll oversee factory operations, contract harvesting partnerships, export compliance, and board reporting—while serving as a key ambassador to regulators and international clients. A structured transition is in place, with support from both the outgoing CEO and a former CEO-turned-Director.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage all business operations with strong oversight on financials, compliance, and strategic outcomes
* Drive export sales and manage longstanding relationships with key Asian clients
* Ensure sustainable practices and uphold the company’s strong regulatory reputation
* Collaborate closely with the board and report on performance, risks, and strategic direction
* Guide factory teams while upholding company values of integrity and accountability
* Represent the business externally, including with regulators and industry bodies
* Identify and develop new products, markets, and operational improvements
About You
You are a commercially savvy and culturally aware leader, known for your integrity, calm decision-making, and ability to build trust across diverse teams—from factory floors to boardrooms. You thrive in flat, agile environments and bring a global mindset to strategy and operations.
Selection Criteria
* Executive leadership experience, preferably in seafood, agribusiness, or export sectors
* Track record in sales and client engagement—especially with Asian markets
* Strong financial acumen, including Excel and understanding of FX risk
* Experience liaising with government, regulators, and international buyers
* Exposure to quality assurance, export compliance, and product lifecycle oversight
* High emotional intelligence with a collaborative, transparent approach
* Desirable: knowledge of regulated industries or marine products
Remuneration & Conditions
* Salary package: $200,000 – $250,000 + superannuation
* Relocation assistance
* Discretionary bonus post-18 months
* Minimal travel (Asia: 1x annually; VIC: 1x annually)
Contact
Agri Talent provides permanent recruitment and executive search services exclusively for Australian agribusiness. For more information, please contact Bruce Highfield, Executive Search, Agri Talent on 0473 597 731.
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