Head of Operations

Are you eager to align yourself with one of Australia's most dynamic food manufacturers? Do you thrive in a vibrant, fast-paced environment where your contributions make a difference? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you

Discover Not a Trace

Not a Trace is a family-owned Australian business with over 35 years of experience in gluten-free manufacturing and an expert knowledge of nutrition and special dietary foods.

Based in South East Melbourne, at the production site, with the founders still leading the business on a day-to-day basis and a significant recent investment to drive an ambitious and exciting 5-year growth plan.

Leaders in innovation and quality for gluten and nut-free manufacturing

Pioneers of the gluten-free category in the late 80's as founders of Freedom Foods

Founders and owners of the world's first dedicated Low FODMAP brand FODMAPPED

Strong network in Australia with a long history of bringing new products to the market

Australian and NZ Major Retailer supplier for over 10yrs.

What we offer:

Awarded 5-Star Employer of Choice 2024

A healthy work/life balance

A purpose-driven culture that thrives on energy and collaboration

Priortising well-being with a dedicated Workplace Wellbeing Program, giving you access to 24/7 counselling services

About the role:

We're looking for a dynamic and experienced Head of Operations to lead our operations function and play a key role in driving our business forward. This pivotal senior leadership position is responsible for ensuring our operations run safely, efficiently, and in alignment with our strategic objectives.

Reporting directly to the executive team, you will oversee all facets of operations—including production, supply chain & planning, engineering, and reliability—ensuring high performance, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.

You'll be a natural leader who sets the tone for safety, innovation, and collaboration. As a key voice at the leadership table, you will work closely with peers across People & Culture, Finance, QA, and Commercial to influence business decisions, improve processes, and support sustainable growth.

If you're passionate about building high-performing teams, championing continuous improvement, and leading transformational projects, this is your opportunity to make a significant impact

To be successful in this role, you will need:

A minimum of 5 years' experience in a similar senior operations or management role

Relevant tertiary qualifications in operations, engineering, supply chain, or a related field

Proven experience in FMCG and food manufacturing environments

Strong knowledge of food safety and quality systems (e.g. FSANZ, SQF, HACCP, CFMSR), with a passion for driving excellence in quality

A successful track record in managing complex food manufacturing operations, including delivery of capital projects

Exceptional relationship-building skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the business and with external partners

Demonstrated leadership capability and experience in developing high-performing teams and a strong, values-driven team culture

A proactive safety mindset, ensuring safe work practices are embedded in everyday operations

A continuous improvement mindset, with practical experience in leading CI initiatives across teams or departments

NO AGENCIES

Salary match Number of applicants Skills match

Your application will include the following questions:Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia? How many years' experience do you have as a Head of Operations? Have you worked in a role which requires a sound understanding of OH&S/WHS? What's your expected annual base salary?

Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics 51-100 employees

BAKING A DIFFERENCE

Pioneers in the health food category and specialists in contract manufacturing that's 100% gluten and nut free.

BAKING A DIFFERENCE

Pioneers in the health food category and specialists in contract manufacturing that's 100% gluten and nut free.

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