National HR Manager

Lead HR strategy and EBA negotiations at executive level. Coach, guide & grow leaders across a national business. Make real impact in Northern Australia's largest shipping company. This role will be based in either Cairns, FNQ or Darwin, NT.

Elite Executive is proud to work exclusively with Sea Swift, Australia's largest privately-owned shipping company that services remote and regional communities across Northern Australia. With a proud history and a strong future, Sea Swift plays a vital role in connecting people, businesses, and communities through its extensive network of shipping and logistics services.

The organisation is people-focused, values-driven, and committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive workplace where employees are encouraged to grow, contribute, and thrive.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the National Human Resources Manager will lead both the strategic direction and operational delivery of HR services across this multi-site, complex organisation.

You will be responsible for guiding and developing a team of HR professionals whilst partnering closely with senior leadership and operational staff to ensure HR outcomes align with business needs.

This is a highly visible leadership role where you'll engage with all levels of the business, from presenting reports at Board level to visiting the port and speaking with frontline staff. The successful candidate will also play a pivotal role in building constructive and collaborative industrial relations.

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of the HR function.
• Partner with the CEO, Board, and Executive Team to implement people strategies that drive organisational success.
• Lead, coach, and support HR team members and frontline leaders to build capability and accountability.
• Manage enterprise bargaining agreement (EBA) negotiations and foster positive union relationships.
• Ensure compliance with workplace legislation, industrial relations frameworks, and safety standards.
• Oversee recruitment, retention, professional development, and talent management strategies.
• Maintain and enhance HR systems and update policies and procedures in line with legislation.
• Prepare and present detailed board-level reports and strategic analysis.
• Promote a culture of safety, professionalism, and respect across the business.

• Diploma, degree, or MBA in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, or a related discipline.
• 5–10 years' HR experience, ideally with leadership exposure; the role may suit an experienced HR Advisor or Manager ready to step up into a national leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of industrial relations, EBAs, and union engagement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with strong reporting and board presentation skills.
• Practical, people-centred, and resilient leader with the ability to balance strategy and hands-on delivery.
• Maritime, logistics, or similar industry experience is desirable but not essential.
• Strong integrity and ability to challenge inappropriate behaviour constructively.

• Executive-level position reporting to the CEO.
• Opportunity to shape and influence HR strategy across a major Northern Australian employer.
• Collaborative and supportive leadership team.
• Genuine investment in employee wellbeing and professional development.
• Regional travel opportunities to connect with communities across Northern Australia.

This role may be based in Cairns or Darwin with a strong preference on being Cairns-based.

Please apply via the link, including a recent copy of your resume. Applications that fail to address the outlined criteria may not be considered.

Closing date for applications will be 1700hrs Friday 26th September 2025. Elite Executive reserves the right to conclude this process earlier should the right candidate be identified.

Please note that all communication with Elite Executive is maintained strictly confidential. No information will be forwarded to any party without your permission as we respect your right to explore employment opportunities.

At Elite Executive we are committed to creating inclusive workplaces that promote and value diversity and inclusion. We encourage and welcome people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply.

ONLY APPLICANTS WITH THE RIGHT TO WORK IN AUSTRALIA WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS ROLE