About us - Cactus Canning

Join a growing and innovative beverage manufacturing and distillery business based in Brisbane’s western suburbs.

Cactus Canning is Brisbane’s leading craft contract manufacturing and canning company. We specialise in small-batch canning of custom beverages ranging from Coffee, Teas, Seltzers, Water, and other alcoholic beverages for a diverse and expanding client base.

With a strong sales pipeline, well-established systems, and a stable, high-performing team, we’re looking for an experienced and motivated General Manager to lead the next phase of growth.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Directors, the General Manager will be responsible for business development, managing client interactions and working with the Directors on strategic growth for the business, in addition to overseeing some aspects of operations and finance.

This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for ensuring smooth daily operations, financial control, regulatory compliance, and contributing to continuous improvement across production, co-packing, and distilling activities.

You’ll be leading a small but skilled team including a Production Manager, Administration Manager, Quality Assurance Lead and other supporting production/warehouse staff — in a collaborative environment that values initiative, accountability, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Genuine autonomy in leading the team in daily operations of the beverage manufacturing and distillery facility.

Coordinate with the Production Manager on production efficiency, quality assurance, and on-time delivery.

Direct and manage the company's financial planning, budgeting, and cost control.

Ensure compliance with FSANZ, HACCP, WHS, ATO, and liquor licensing regulations.

Drive strategic growth, new business opportunities, and customer relationships.

Lead HR functions including recruitment, training, and team development.

Report regularly and work closely with the Directors as needed.

Represent the business with professionalism.

About You

You’re a commercially minded, practical leader who thrives in a dynamic small-business environment. You understand manufacturing systems, quality frameworks, and team leadership — and you’re motivated to build something long-term.

You will bring:

Proven leadership experience in beverage, food, or FMCG manufacturing.

Strong financial literacy and operational management capability.

Knowledge of food safety, WHS, and compliance frameworks.

Excellent people management and communication skills.

Commercial acumen with experience in customer relations or B2B sales.

Ability to obtain Liquor Licence and ORLG Approved Manager status (clean record).

Highly Regarded:

Background in co-packing, distilling, or craft beverage production.

Experience in SQF, HACCP, or FSANZ-regulated environments.

Strong system and process orientation with hands-on leadership style.

What’s on Offer

A career-defining opportunity to lead a growing craft beverage innovator, offering a competitive remuneration package including car allowance and profit-share incentives.

Opportunity to make a tangible impact in a growing, well-established business.

Supportive ownership and a stable, experienced team.

Modern production facility in Darra, Brisbane.

Genuine autonomy and the chance to help shape the company’s future direction.