Chief Operating Officer

Lead with purpose.
Build systems.
Empower people.
Work Ventures is Australia's longest-standing tech based social enterprise, committed to transforming Australia through technology, skills and meaningful career pathways.
As the team scale their national operations, they are now seeking a people-first, systems-focused Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead the transformation across the logistics, repair and refurbishment functions, and to support the team's next phase of sustainable growth.
This is a rare opportunity to join a purpose-driven executive team and take the reins of day-to-day operations.
You will champion change, strengthen systems, and lift performance to ensure the team are ready to scale sustainably and smartly.
About the Role This is a hands-on executive leadership role focused on uplifting systems, capability, and accountability across operational functions.
You'll guide the combined operational team to deliver service excellence, embed a culture of performance and collaboration, and build systems that enable scale.
You'll also act as the operational lead for a major ERP implementation, ensuring successful rollout and adoption across the business, playing a key role in realising the anticipated business benefits.
Key Responsibilities Provide strategic oversight across repairs, refurbishment, logistics, decommissioning, and operational compliance Coach and support the functional leads to create high-performing, values-aligned teams Lead operational improvements, performance monitoring and workflow integration Oversee WHS, quality assurance, and compliance frameworks Act as the operational lead for ERP selection, implementation, and organisational readiness Collaborate with internal teams and key external partners to align operations with strategic goals Represent operations in planning, risk reporting and performance updates to the CEO and Board What We're Looking For You're a calm, structured and capable operator who knows how to lead people through change - not by force, but by building trust, setting clear expectations, and following through.
You're organised and deliberate, with a systems mindset, strong attention to detail, and a focus on quality, safety, and process.
You know how to coach, develop and uplift team performance, providing new ways of working while modernising systems and team culture.
You delegate thoughtfully, hold people to account respectfully, and stay composed under pressure.
You're a strategic operator who leads with empathy and clarity.
You bring structure and insight, but also understand how to navigate resistance and help people adjust to change.
You know how to roll up your sleeves - and when to step back and let your team lead.
We're especially looking for someone who has: Senior leadership experience in logistics, warehouse, repairs, or service-based operations Proven success leading operational change and process improvement Experience implementing an ERP or business systems upgrade (essential) Strength in structured planning, coaching, and communication A confident, emotionally intelligent leadership style grounded in purpose and people Why Join Work Ventures? Join a respected social enterprise with national impact and a 40+ year legacy Help shape the next generation of operational systems, leadership, and delivery Work with a purpose-driven CEO and supportive executive team Salary packaging available due to Work Ventures' registered charity status Flexible, hybrid working arrangements availableApply now to apply your proven operational leadership to create meaningful impact to one of Australia's most established social enterprises.
Position Description #J-18808-Ljbffr

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