Why we exist:

At The Summit, we believe that an incredible culture is the driving force behind inspiring our teams and guests to Unleash Their Greatness. This belief is at the heart of everything we do. We achieve this by living our values and delivering our mission with passion and integrity.

What we do:

We passionately deliver inspiring and life-changing experiences through meaningful programs and powerful activities that build self-worth, character, success and happiness

Our Guest Promise:

We promise an extraordinary and unique experience given by genuine and passionate people to help create awesome memories.

Our Core Values

• WOW – Extraordinary experiences around every corner
• OWN IT, LIVE IT – We do what we say and hold ourselves and others accountable
• INSPIRE PASSION – We connect with what excites us and others
• ONE IN, ALL IN – We are united and always support each other
• LOVE LIFE – Love who you are and what you do
• SHARE YOUR TRUE FEELINGS – We think it, we feel it, we say it

Position Overview

As Chief Operations Officer (COO), you will play a pivotal role in driving operational excellence, strategic implementation, and business performance. You will lead and oversee Program, Guest Services, Catering, and Maintenance teams, ensuring seamless integration of operations while aligning with The Summit’s mission and long-term objectives.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), you will provide high-level guidance, financial oversight, risk management, and operational innovation. Your leadership will enhance business efficiencies, elevate customer experiences, and reinforce our commitment to safety, quality, and cultural excellence.

This role is a combination of strategic leadership and hands-on operational management. You will be responsible for executing best-practice strategies, fostering a high-performance culture, and ensuring The Summit continues to deliver life-changing experiences to its clients.

Key Responsibilities Leadership & Operational Excellence

• Lead and over see Program, Guest Services, Catering, and Maintenance through critical evaluation and complex problem-solving across all departments.
• Ensure seamless execution of strategic and operational initiatives.
• Drive efficiency, cost control, and business performance measures.
• Develop and implement best-in-class operational strategies.
• Lead the Department heads, providing mentorship and accountability.
• Maintain and enhance high-performance workplace culture.

Strategic Planning & Business Growth

• Align operational functions with company-wide goals and growth strategies.
• Implement financial management, forecasting, and budgeting at the departmental level.
• Identify and implement opportunities for innovation and efficiency.

Risk Management, Compliance & Mitigation

• Oversee activity compliance, safety audits, and health and building inspections.
• Implement proactive risk management strategies and incident response protocols.
• Oversee WorkSafe and OH & S legislation compliance, ensuring timely reporting and corrective actions.
• Onsite risk mitigation across the entire departments eg: Dietary processes, pre-activity checks, quarterly in-house checks for activities and gear, arborists, engineers and activity specialists.

Financial Oversight & Cost Management

• Monitor operational margins and profitability across departments.
• Conduct monthly and quarterly financial reviews.
• Implement cost-saving measures and resource allocation efficiencies.
• Oversee procurement processes and contractor management.
• Find solutions that are within budget and an ongoing sustainable part of our infrastructure.

Project Management

• Project manage start to end all infrastructure-based projects in collaboration with the relevant department heads.

Supplier Engagement and Guest Satisfaction

• Maintain strong relationships with suppliers, and industry partners.
• Ensure a solid understanding of the operational needs of Schools (our primary demographic) and ensure camp-wide operations meet and exceed expectations
• Oversee camp-wide quality assurance to ensure guest satisfaction.

Team Development & Culture Building

• Lead, mentor, and develop department heads and operational teams.
• Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure staff rostering, logistics, and scheduling align with business demands and budgets.
• Act as a role model, reinforcing The Summit’s values and leadership excellence.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Achievement of financial performance targets (cost control, margins, budgeting).
• Successful execution of strategic initiatives and business growth strategies.
• Operational efficiency across all managed departments.
• Maintenance of high safety standards and regulatory compliance.
• Guest satisfaction and quality assurance metrics.
• Leadership effectiveness and team engagement levels.

Meeting & Reporting Structure Weekly Meetings & Check-Ins

• Level 10 Meeting- Senior team
• Leadership meeting - all department heads
• Performance reports - individual department heads
• Operations meeting with head of maintenance
• Performance meeting with CEO

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven executive leadership experience in a COO, General Manager, or senior operational role.
• Strong strategic and financial acumen.
• Extensive knowledge of risk management, compliance, and safety regulations.
• Experience in facility and infrastructure management (e.g., construction, plumbing, electrical, project management).
• Exceptional team leadership and people management skills.
• Experience in adventure tourism, or experiential education is advantageous.

Remuneration & Benefits

• Salary: $100,000 - $120,000 per annum (based on experience and proven achievements).
• Superannuation: Paid in addition to salary.
• Technology: Laptop provided by The Summit.
• Phone Allowance: Existing personal plan covered, or a new device provided.
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Work Environment: Inspiring, high-energy, and purpose-driven workplace

The Chief Operations Officer role is an exciting and dynamic leadership opportunity within a thriving, purpose-driven organization.