Little Tuna Micro-Cannery Operations Manager
Little Tuna | East Coast Tuna Co.
Guide and grow Australia's first seafood micro-cannery hands-on, purpose-driven and future focused.
Location: Cairns (on-site)
Full-time
About Us
At Little Tuna, East Coast Tuna Co. and Cairns Little Seafood Market, we're not just selling seafood we're rewriting the story of Australian tuna. From launching the nation's first Australian-made, wild-caught tuna in a jar, to pioneering the only Aussie-caught tinned tuna, our brands are built on sustainability, transparency and innovation.
Founded by Australian fishing families, we're a passionate crew supporting local fishers, protecting our oceans and delivering premium, traceable seafood. With fast growth across retail, export, and direct-to-consumer channels, plus major investment in building a brand-new micro-cannery and team, we're driving a new era of seafood manufacturing in Australia.
About the Role
We're looking for a proactive Operations Manager to establish and run our new micro-cannery facility from the ground up. You'll lead the commissioning of equipment, recruit and develop a brand-new processing team and oversee daily operations all while embedding systems, processes, and culture that set us up for success.
This is a hands-on role: you'll be just as comfortable on the factory floor as you are streamlining admin systems, analysing performance data or managing budgets. Working closely with the founders and leadership team, you'll ensure smooth operations across manufacturing, processing, and retail, while also driving major projects like equipment installation, staff onboarding and cannery expansion.
Key Responsibilities
Team Building & Leadership
* Recruit, train and lead a brand-new processing team from day one.
* Build a positive, high-performance culture with a focus on safety, quality and efficiency.
* Mentor and motivate staff to grow with the business.
Operational Leadership
* Oversee daily operations across seafood processing, cannery, and retail activities.
* Ensure compliance with HACCP, OH&S and company quality protocols.
* Implement continuous improvement initiatives to lift productivity and streamline workflows.
Project & Process Management
* Plan, coordinate, and deliver operational projects, including equipment commissioning and facility expansion.
* Work with external contractors and suppliers for seamless delivery of installations and integration.
* Monitor project timelines, budgets, and risks, providing regular updates to the Managing Director.
* Ensure staff are trained and supported in adopting new systems and processes.
Commercial & Administrative Oversight
* Track and analyse operational data (production volumes, yields, costs, efficiency metrics).
* Partner with sales, marketing, and distribution teams to ensure demand matches supply.
* Prepare and manage operational budgets, forecasts and reporting.
* Maintain supplier relationships and negotiate operational contracts.
Strategic Contribution
* Provide operational insights to shape long-term decisions and growth strategies.
* Identify and implement opportunities for value-add, efficiency and circular economy practices.
* Support the business through a period of significant growth and expansion.
What We're Looking For
* 3+ years' experience in operations, production, or project management (FMCG, seafood, or food processing preferred).
* Proven ability to recruit, build, and lead teams in a hands-on environment.
* Strong technical knowledge of processing/manufacturing equipment and compliance frameworks.
* Excellent organisational and administrative skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
* Experience with budgets, forecasting, and data-driven decision-making.
* A self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, small-team environment.
* Passion for sustainability, local food systems, or the seafood industry is a big plus.
What We Offer
* The opportunity to build and shape an entirely new facility and team.
* A front-row seat in a growing, award-winning seafood business.
* A varied role with both hands-on operations and strategic input.
* Supportive, founder-led team culture where fresh ideas are valued.
* Competitive salary and the chance to make a real impact.
Position closes 12 September 2025
Send your CV and a short cover letter through the SEEK portal only. Tell us why this role excites you and how you can help us grow.
If you have any questions please reach out to Kate
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