General Manager Operations and Sales

SBMS is seeking a dynamic and commercially driven General Manager – Operations and Sales to lead our operational delivery and strategic business development efforts across a diverse client base.

Reporting to the Chair of SBMS this role is critical in driving performance outcomes, ensuring financial accountability, and expanding SBMS's footprint in key sectors including however not limited to Federal, State and Local Government, Franchise Sector, Tertiary Education (Universities and TAFE), Small Business Network Groups, Women In Business Forum's, SBMS Website Bookings (CORE) and the broader small business community.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for supporting small business success, a proven track record in operational leadership, and a strong network of business and government contacts. This is a "roll up your sleeves " hands-on role, working closely with internal teams, partners, mentors, and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring service delivery excellence, mentor engagement, stakeholder engagement and contract compliance.
• Be the face of SBMS by attending key meetings with partnerships and mentor groups every quarter.
• Lead a small collaborative internal team in supporting an Australia-wide mentor network.
• Develop and implement operational systems, reporting tools, and process improvements to ensure efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
• Coordinate with finance to ensure business continuity, cost centre management, and performance.
• Maximising SBMS outreach through the latest trends in digital programs to reach 2.5 million small businesses in Australia.

Sales and Business Development

• Identify and secure new business opportunities with Local, State, and Federal Agencies, Franchise Networks, universities, TAFE, as well as the small business community and advocacy groups such as VECCI, the Franchise Council of Australia, the Small Business Council of Australia and the Small Business Commissioner, among others.
• Develop targeted sales strategies to expand SBMS services into new sectors and regions, leveraging existing resources to drive growth.
• Manage tender writing, proposal submissions, and presentations to secure long-term contracts and partnerships.
• Build and maintain relationships with decision-makers, procurement leads, and sector leaders.
• Responsible for direct mentoring revenue through the SBMS website (CORE) at double-digit increases year on year.
• Responsible for managing key partnerships along with a cluster of existing clients and partnerships within Victoria.

Financial Management and Reporting

• Work closely with the Board to meet critical key performance indicators, ensure financial viability, achieve revenue targets, and maintain business continuity.
• Maintain a " no surprise " mindset with the Board.
• Track and report on sales performance, project profitability, and ROI of key activities.
• Ensure compliance with all financial, legal, and regulatory requirements.
• Drive a culture of accountability and transparency in financial operations.
• Attend Audit & Risk Meetings

Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent and serve as the face of SBMS at networking events, government forums, partnership days, and industry expos.
• Engage and develop partnerships with regional business leaders, economic development officers, franchisees and academic institutions to promote SBMS services.
• Collaborate with key internal stakeholders, including mentors and advisory groups, every quarter to understand what can be done better to serve small businesses and partnerships.
• Ensure that a mentor newsletter is activated every month.
• Maintain and develop strong business relationships with QVM Management (monthly/quarterly) and other corporate stakeholders as required and as needed.
• Knowledge of small business support programs and government initiatives

Essential Requirements:

• Minimum 5+ years in senior operations or sales management roles
• Proven track record in business development and client relationship management
• Experience working with government and education sectors
• Strong financial management and P&L accountability experience
• Established network of business and government contacts

Key Competencies:

• Strategic planning and execution experience
• CRM and sales management systems proficiency
• Financial analysis and budgeting skills
• Stakeholder management across multiple sectors

Work Eligibility:

• Unrestricted right to work in Australia
• Ability to obtain security clearance for government contracts if required
• Current driver's licence and willingness to travel within Australia