Lead one of Victoria's flagship mental health reform services We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead a Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Bairnsdale. This senior leadership role gives you the chance to build, lead, and embed a values-driven service that delivers innovative, person-centred mental health support - not your average mental health program - making a real difference in the East Gippsland community. Why This Role is Different True leadership scope: Shape operations, culture, and service delivery from the ground up Reform-led environment: Aligned with the Royal Commission and long-term government funding Innovative, people-first model: Lead a workforce of clinical and lived-experience professionals delivering unique, holistic care Meaningful impact: Hands-on, visible leadership with tangible outcomes About the Program Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals provide free, voluntary, and accessible mental health support for adults experiencing mental health challenges, including co-occurring alcohol and drug needs. Unlike standard mental health programs, these services operate with a "no wrong door" approach, prioritising choice, control, and holistic, person-centred care. About the Role You will provide hands-on operational leadership, overseeing all aspects of service delivery, workforce management, and performance. You will manage a large multidisciplinary team (~35 staff), supported by Team Leaders, administration, and a Clinical Director. Ideal candidates are confident, emotionally intelligent leaders who thrive in complex environments and enjoy being visible and embedded with their team. Key Responsibilities Lead and support a multidisciplinary workforce across clinical and lived-experience teams Provide direct leadership to Team Leaders and operational support staff Oversee day-to-day operations, systems, and service performance Build a collaborative, inclusive, and values-driven team culture Implement and embed reform-aligned, innovative models of care Develop strong relationships with partner organisations and stakeholders Represent the service through community engagement and advocacy Balance operational delivery with continuous improvement and strategic leadership About You You are a people-centred operational leader with strong emotional intelligence and a practical, solutions-focused approach. You can confidently lead teams with diverse perspectives and navigate complexity. You will bring: Senior operational or management experience in mental health, health, or community services Knowledge of, or strong exposure to, mental health reform and the Royal Commission environment Experience leading multidisciplinary teams Collaborative, values-led leadership style Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and representing services publicly Clinical qualifications highly regarded but not essential. Requirements Relevant tertiary qualification (Allied Health, Nursing, Psychology, or similar highly regarded) Relevant professional registration (where applicable) Current Driver's Licence Right to work in Australia, visa sponsorship may be available for the right candidate Employment subject to standard pre-employment checks Location & Flexibility Bairnsdale-based role (East Gippsland) Melbourne or interstate candidates encouraged to apply Flexible start date and relocation support available for the right candidate One day per week work-from-home (reporting focused) Work vehicle provided, with option to salary package What's on Offer Purpose-driven, values-based organisation Salary packaging up to $15,899 per annum Meal & entertainment packaging up to $2,650 per annum 17.5% annual leave loading Paid parental leave after 12 months Employee Assistance Program for you and your family Long-term role security (ongoing position) Interested? If you have any questions or would like a confidential discussion about the role, contact Brock at Aligned Healthcare on brock@aligned-healthcare.com.au or at 0481 734 440. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTIQA communities, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds. Aligned Healthcare partners with community service organisations across Victoria to connect passionate practitioners with purpose-driven careers.