Operations Manager

Rivergum has entered an exciting new chapter, transitioning from traditional builds to a bold, contemporary focus on medium-density housing. It's a dynamic shift, driven by a passionate leadership group, sharp market insights, and a clear strategic vision for the future.

Backed by a $500M pipeline of residential developments across metropolitan Adelaide, we're not just building houses, we're shaping communities with purpose and pride. With over 100 professionals who thrive on innovation, collaboration, and quality, Rivergum is where great ideas become great places to live.

We live by our values: Fun, Teamwork, Integrity, Great Ideas, and Own It. We're committed to supporting our people with long-term career development, training, and clear pathways for growth, because when our team thrives, our business thrives.

About the Role

As our Operations Manager, you'll play a pivotal role in leading and coordinating all pre-construction functions across Drafting, Estimating, Selections and Scheduling. Your focus will be on ensuring timely and accurate handover of projects to construction on time, on budget, and to the highest standards of quality.

Reporting to the Building Manager, you'll provide strategic and operational leadership to a multidisciplinary team, ensuring processes, systems, and performance align with Rivergum's growth ambitions and production goals.

This is a key leadership position for an accomplished operations professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys building structure, driving improvement, and empowering high-performing teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and inspire Pre-Construction Teams, setting clear KPIs and fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Oversee the entire pre-construction workflow, ensuring smooth project progression from design development
• Drive efficiency across estimating and scheduling functions to achieve financial and production targets.
• Ensure design documentation, model templates and cost data are accurate, up to date, and aligned with budgets.
• Identify process improvements that enhance productivity, minimise rework, and optimise cost performance.
• Collaborate with Development, Design, Construction and Corporate Services teams to achieve operational alignment.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with consultants, suppliers and local authorities to streamline approvals and delivery.
• Monitor project timelines, margins and performance metrics, providing regular reporting and insights to senior leadership.
• Ensure compliance with WHS, building codes, and all contractual and legislative requirements.

Who We Are Looking For

You're a commercially minded leader with a passion for operational excellence and a deep understanding of the residential construction industry. You combine strategic thinking with a hands-on approach, and you know how to bring out the best in your people.

Essential:

• Tertiary qualification in Project Management, Design, Construction Management, Property or Business Management
• 10+ years' experience in residential construction, with at least 5 in a senior operations or pre-construction management role.
• Strong knowledge of construction methodologies, estimating, scheduling and design processes.
• Proven ability to lead teams, streamline operations and deliver on business performance targets.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving and stakeholder management skills.
• General Builder's Licence (minimum 2-storey residential).
• Familiarity with ClickHome, Inspired, BuildPro or similar construction systems.

Why Work With Us

At Rivergum Group, we offer more than just a job, we offer a career with purpose. You'll be part of a supportive team that values innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement.

With a tier-one developer clientele, Rivergum Homes has adopted a semi-commercial approach to deliver its strong pipeline of volume medium-density projects, projects that in scale and value replicate many commercial builds, offering an exciting challenge for professionals eager to make their mark in the residential sector.

Rivergum Homes is pioneering the way large-scale residential developments are delivered, combining the discipline of commercial processes with the agility and innovation of residential construction.

We provide:

• Competitive salary package aligned with your experience and expertise
• A dynamic and inclusive workplace where we celebrate wins and our people
• Strong focus on teamwork, collaboration and support
• Career progression, professional development and ongoing training
• Continuous improvement culture with modern systems and processes
• Access to exciting residential projects shaping communities across SA
• A genuine commitment to work-life balance and employee wellbeing
• Hybrid work flexibility — office and home
• Exclusive perks and benefits for car leasing, gift cards and more

How to Apply

Click Apply Now and upload your resume, ensuring your experience aligns to the criteria listed above.

For a confidential discussion please contact Karen Flinn, People & Culture Business Partner, on

Rivergum are an employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. We believe that diversity strengthens teams, sparks innovation, and drives better outcomes. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to thrive.

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