Operations Manager - Mental Health and Wellbeing Local
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.
Key qualifications and attributes 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*****@aligned-healthcare.com.auor at ***.
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.
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