Strategic Operations Manager - Sawmill

SMAART Recruitment
Hervey Bay, Fraser Coast, QLD
A$100,000-$120,000 p/a (subject to exp) + Super
Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics → Management
Full-time
On-site

Posted 17 days ago


We’re looking for a results-oriented Strategic Operations Manager with proven expertise in project delivery and operational leadership to help take our client’s Fraser Coast sawmill into its next phase of growth. In this key role, you’ll work alongside an experienced Mill Manager and Office Manager to lead strategic infrastructure projects, enhance production systems, and drive measurable improvements across the operation.

This role is perfect for a hands-on leader who can bridge long-term business strategy with day-to-day execution—someone who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and is energised by continuous improvement, team leadership, and delivering results through data and collaboration.

THE ROLE:
This isn’t just about keeping things ticking—it’s about building for the future. In this role, you’ll help lead the projects, systems, and strategies that set the business up for long-term success. If you’re someone who can manage the now while planning for what’s next here’s some of what you can expect to take on:

Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversee and drive strategic projects, including the planning through to completion of new infrastructure such as new warehouse builds and machinery upgrades
  • Use data to streamline workflows, reduce waste, and increase output—all while staying responsive to market demand
  • Maintain strong relationships with key customers and ensure the mill operations support current and emerging client needs.
  • Collaborate with the sales team to identify and develop new market opportunities, product lines, and distribution channels.
  • Partner with the Financial Commercial Manager to track and manage the mill’s financial performance, covering budgets, expenses, and production margins.
  • Work closely with leadership across departments to ensure alignment and consistency in people practices.

ABOUT YOU:
You’re a confident and collaborative leader—someone who can join a well-established team, earn trust quickly, and bring fresh thinking without disrupting the strong foundations already in place. You know when to lead, when to listen, and how to work in step with others to drive long-term success.

To thrive in this role, you’ll bring:

  • Proven experience in a senior manufacturing or leadership role, ideally in hardwood timber industry.
  • Strong commercial and strategic planning skills.
  • Demonstrated expertise in data-driven production planning and performance optimisation.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

THE PERKS:

  • Base salary circa $100K-$120K + Super (negotiable based on experience)
  • Fully maintained company vehicle + tools of the trade
  • Be part of a values-driven, sustainability-focused workplace.
  • A pivotal leadership role with broad impact across strategy, operations, and innovation.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your operations career and help shape the future of a leading timber manufacturer, we’d love to hear from you.

Please click APPLY NOW to submit your CV or for any questions please reach out to Jess Haag [email protected]


About SMAART Recruitment

Brisbane, QLD, Australia

This company does not have any further information provided at this time. We encourage you to research the company by searching for them to learn more about the company or role in question before applying.

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