Operations Manager – Clean Collective Australia
Clean Collective is one of Australasia's fastest-growing premium "better-for-you" beverage brands. Founded eight years ago in New Zealand, we have become a leading independent RTD company known for crafting clean, premium alcoholic and non‑alcoholic products. As we continue our rapid expansion in Australia with key retail partners including Dan Murphy's, ALM/IBA, ILG, Coles Liquor, and e‑commerce platforms, we are looking to hire an Operations Manager in Sydney to support and accelerate our growth throughout the AU market.
Purpose of Role
We are seeking a highly capable and detail‑oriented Operations Manager to take full ownership of our Australian supply chain, inventory management, importation processes, 3PL network, and operational performance. The key purpose of this role is to ensure the right stock is in the right place at the right time, while building scalable systems that support Clean Collective's growth across multiple states and channels. This role requires strong collaboration with Sales, Finance, and NZ Operations to ensure accurate forecasting, seamless execution, and exceptional service levels across all partners.
Responsibilities
* Manage national SOH across all 3PLs and wholesale DCs, ensuring accurate inventory levels and eliminating any out‑of‑stocks scenarios.
* Maintain all inventory movements and reconciliations within our stock management system (Unleashed). Investigate and reconcile stock discrepancies across 3PLs, wholesale DCs, and internal systems.
* Build and manage short, mid, and long‑term forecasts with Sales team, and maintain a forward‑looking stock model.
* Ensure reliable supply into wholesale partners and manage stock allocations for promotions and NPD launches.
* Place purchase orders and manage the full importation process from NZ to bonded warehouse receival.
* Oversee excise management, including N20/N30 drawdowns, compliance, and reconciliation with Finance.
* Oversee e‑commerce fulfilment performance, including SOH accuracy, order issues, and Next3PL KPIs.
* Produce key operational reporting including CDS reporting, inventory reports, stock risk analysis, and 3PL scorecards.
* Own and review 3PL performance, including pricing, accuracy, and network optimisation.
* Develop SOPs, identify process improvements, and work with CFO on cost models, budgeting, and compliance.
Skills & Experience
* 2‑3 years' experience in freight and logistics critical to this role.
* 2‑3 years' experience in FMCG, beverage, or alcohol supply chain/operations would be highly beneficial.
* Experience in a small, agile, or scaling business is highly advantageous.
* Strong capability in inventory management, forecasting, 3PL management, and e‑commerce fulfilment.
* Experience with Unleashed or similar ERPs (DEAR, Cin7, NetSuite, etc.).
* Understanding of importation, bonded warehousing, excise, and ATO compliance (or willingness to learn).
* Highly analytical with strong numerical capability.
* Excellent stakeholder management skills across Sales, Finance, wholesalers, and external partners.
* Exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage competing priorities.
* Proactive operator with the ability to anticipate risks and solve problems before they arise.
Personal Attributes
* Highly organised, structured, and calm under pressure.
* Strong communicator who can build effective relationships with internal teams and external partners.
* Ownership mentality with a desire to build scalable systems.
* Thrives in a fast‑paced, small‑team environment.
* Solutions‑focused, commercially minded, and comfortable with ambiguity.
* Passion for premium beverages and wellness‑oriented products is a bonus.
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Distribution, Supply Chain, and Strategy/Planning
Industries
Wholesale Alcoholic Beverages and Wholesale Food and Beverage
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