The Program Manager Canberra is a key member of OBA’s leadership team, supporting the Head of Operations by overseeing Tharwa Campus management, program administration, and operational delivery in the ACT region.

The Tharwa Campus is undergoing a significant transformation, with major investment to create an inspiring outdoor education hub. Recent improvements include new bushcraft workshops, a bushcraft ‘possum kitchen,’ a new operations office, and upgrades to the ropes course and initiatives. A Communal Centre with a commercial kitchen, dining/meeting space for 140 people, and corporate offices is scheduled for completion in mid-2026. Implementing strong campus management systems to support new programs and efficient property operations is now a critical priority.

The role is highly collaborative, working across operational teams, schools, community clients, contractors, service providers, and local stakeholders. As part of the OBA leadership team, the Program Manager has the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on individuals and groups while contributing to a dynamic, challenging, and passionate community.

Knowledge and Experience

Experience in outdoor education or recreation program operations and facilities management, including risk and safety management.

Catering and food operations experience, including oversight of a commercial kitchen, food procurement, and meal preparation/service.

Proven leadership and people management, including line management, staff training, mentoring, and supervision.

Strong project management and administration skills, with proficiency in digital systems, written communication, and document/record management.

Stakeholder relationship management across clients, suppliers, business development, and diverse community engagement.

Event management expertise, including promotion, logistics, and client services.

Attributes and Abilities:

Strong understanding of outdoor and experiential learning, with care for the environment and a passion for the Australian bush.

Skilled relationship builder with excellent communication, vision-setting, and negotiation abilities.

Practical, hands-on problem solver with a ‘can do’ approach.

Accountable, hardworking, and committed, with strong project management skills.

Collaborative team player with a whole-of-organisation mindset to drive innovation, improvement, and resilience.

Self-motivated commitment to ongoing professional development.

Alignment with OBA’s vision and values.

Qualifications

Current Working with Children Check (ACT)

First Aid and CPR currency

Manual driving license

Light Rigid Bus license

Preferred but not essential:

Cert IV or Diploma in Outdoor Leadership or equivalent – with the following electives preferred: bushwalk, abseil, top-rope climb, high ropes elements, canoeing flat water, rafting white water, mountain biking.

Cert IV or Degree in Business Administration, Environmental Sustainability, Project Management or similar

Food Safety Supervisor Certificate (or ability to attain within first 3 months of employment)

Wilderness First Aid

Start Date: November 10, 2025

Applications close September 4.