About the Organisation

The Melbourne Market is Victoria’s only wholesale fruit, vegetable and cut flower trading centre, offering registered buyers unparalleled access to fresh produce, flowers and services from approximately 3,000 tenant businesses. With a strong focus on safety, service, sustainability, and innovation, it is a vital hub for growers, wholesalers, retailers, and the broader community.

The Role

As Operations Manager, you will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the market precinct. This includes leading and coaching the operations and security teams, ensuring compliance with operating rules, managing service contracts, and fostering positive stakeholder relationships. You’ll also play a key role in driving safety culture, operational improvement, and staff development. A key requirement will to be on site during normal trading hours, which are typically 4.00am to 12.00pm.

Key responsibilities include:

Lead, mentor, and manage Market Relations Team Leaders and Officers

Ensure compliance with operating rules, WHS obligations, and risk management practices

Manage market operations contracts and oversee contractor performance

Drive continuous improvement initiatives across operations and service delivery

Prepare reports, budgets, and operational plans to support strategic goals

Oversee incident management, compliance reviews, and stakeholder engagement

Ensure the marketing operating rules are upheld amongst the broader market community

Issuing of breach notices and infringements

Develop and deliver training programs for staff and market users

Promote a safe, inclusive, and productive workplace culture

About You

You are a confident leader with strong operational management experience, ideally within facilities, logistics, security, or property services. You thrive on problem-solving, enjoy working with diverse stakeholders, and can balance hands-on oversight with strategic planning.

What you’ll bring:

Proven leadership and people management experience

Strong knowledge of WHS, risk, and compliance requirements

Contract and subcontractor management experience

Excellent communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills

Ability to work flexibly, including early mornings in line with market operations

Proficiency in Microsoft Office; Salesforce and property management experience desirable

Why Join?

Be part of an iconic organisation central to Victoria’s food supply chain

Lead a committed operations team in a dynamic environment

Enjoy a role with real impact, balancing hands-on operations and strategic leadership

Competitive salary and permanent, stable employment

Mentorship from the executive leadership team

Benefits include salary packaging, additional leave, private health insurance