New & Exciting Leadership Opportunity | Make a Meaningful Impact
Location: Cairns / Far North QLD | Award: SCHADS Level 7
Ruth's Women's Shelter is a proudly feminist organisation that has been providing crisis accommodation and vital support for women and children experiencing domestic and family violence since 1977. Guided by our vision to End Violence Against Women and Their Children, we are committed to creating safer futures through advocacy, support, and empowerment.
We are driven by the core values of Safety, Respect, Empowerment, Integrity, and Collaboration.
The Opportunity
A new and exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Operations Manager to join our dedicated leadership team operating across two Shelter services.
As the Operations Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of the shelter, ensuring high-quality service delivery, compliance with regulatory standards, and a supportive, trauma-informed environment for residents and staff.
You will work closely with the CEO and Senior Practitioner to implement strategic initiatives, improve service outcomes, and continue building a culture of safety, respect, and empowerment.
Flexible work arrangements are part of our collaborative approach, including on-call rotation, allow for work-life balance while meeting client needs
Key Responsibilities
As the Operations Manager, you will:
· Oversee daily operations, service coordination, rostering, and facilities management.
· Lead and support a multidisciplinary team, fostering a positive and trauma-informed workplace culture.
· Ensure compliance with legislation, policies, and funding requirements.
· Drive continuous improvement and operational excellence, maintaining high quality and safe facilities.
· Manage risk, incident responses, and reporting requirements.
· Contribute to strategic planning and organisational development.
· Build and maintain strong partnerships with community organisations, government agencies, and stakeholders.
About You
You are a confident and compassionate leader with a strong understanding of domestic and family violence, or crisis accommodation models. You balance operational efficiency with a warm, humanistic approach.
Key Selection Criteria
· Bachelor Qualification in Management, Business, Community Service, Social Work, or related discipline.
· Demonstrated experience of 5 + years working in a similar role and / similar industry
· Experience in managing projects, facilities, businesses
· Proven experience managing frontline teams in crisis or high-intensity environments.
· Strong organisational, interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
· Experience with compliance, reporting, risk management, and service quality frameworks.
Desirable
· Knowledge of DFV service sector and associated legislation
· Experience in staff supervision or practice leadership.
· Experience with case management software and data systems.
Other Requirements
· Mandatory Working with Children Check (Blue Card)
· First Aid Certificate (HLTAID011) or equivalent
· CPR Certificate (HLTAID009) or equivalent
· Open C Drivers License
What We Offer
· Award rate salary – SCHADS Level 7
· Salary packaging to boost your take-home pay
· Supportive and inclusive workplace with a feminist culture
· Health and well being support, including EAP, supervision, and internal peer support networks
Join a growing, passionate organisation that's making a real difference in the lives of women and children in our community.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and what inspires you to work in the Domestic and Family Violence sector to Emalee Anstee –
Applications will be reviewed as they are received.