Chief Operating Officer – Contract Logistics

Are you ready to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer – Contract Logistics, leading Arrow's next chapter of growth and delivering innovation, performance and customer excellence across our national logistics operations?This is a rare chance to step into a pivotal executive position with one of Australia's fastest-growing transport and logistics providers, making a lasting impact across warehousing, contract management and 3PL operations.Arrow Transport, Logistics and Quarantine Services is a recognised leader in Australia's transport and logistics industry, delivering reliable, customer-focused and innovative solutions across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth. As we continue to expand, we are seeking a proven executive to join our leadership team as Chief Operating Officer – Contract Logistics, with responsibility for providing both strategic direction and operational leadership of our national 3PL network.Based in Melbourne with regular travel to our other states required, this role reports directly to the Owner/Managing Director and offers full autonomy to lead warehousing, contract management and 3PL operations, while shaping the future of a high-growth organisation.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic & Operational Leadership : Provide clear strategic direction and operational oversight across Arrow's 3PL warehousing network, ensuring alignment with national growth objectives.Performance & Growth : Drive measurable improvements in efficiency, service, and profitability through data-driven decision-making, robust KPI frameworks, and continuous improvement initiatives.Safety & Compliance : Embed a safety-first culture and ensure full compliance with health, safety, environmental and food safety requirements, setting the benchmark for industry best practice.Commercial Leadership : Negotiate and implement supplier agreements, optimise procurement, and strengthen commercial frameworks to enhance margin performance and long-term sustainability.Customer Excellence : Build enduring client partnerships by delivering superior service, ensuring retention, and creating opportunities for account growth and expansion.Transformation & Systems : Lead the implementation of systems, processes and technologies that enhance visibility, scalability, and operational control across the business.Executive Collaboration : Partner with IT, Finance, HR and Port Logistics leaders to align contract logistics execution with Arrow's broader strategic objectives.People & Culture : Lead, mentor and develop a workforce of 100+, building capability, succession strength and a high-performance culture grounded in accountability, transparency and frontline engagement.Governance & Control : Establish and maintain SOPs, compliance frameworks, and audit readiness to support operational integrity and customer confidence.The Leader We're Looking ForProven Leadership in Logistics : Deep understanding of warehouse operations, logistics, and supply chain, with the ability to lead large-scale, complex operations.Growth & Expansion Experience : Demonstrated success in setting up and managing greenfield sites, scaling operations, and expanding national 3PL portfolios.Financial Stewardship : Extensive P&L management experience (>$30M preferred), including labour optimisation, cost control, margin management and waste reduction.Commercial Acumen : Strong background in procurement, rebates, supplier negotiations and commercial frameworks, with a record of driving margin enhancement.Technology & Systems Expertise : Proven ability to implement and manage WMS, systems integration and process improvements that deliver operational visibility and efficiency.Strategic Negotiation & Stakeholder Management : Exceptional ability to negotiate at a senior level and build enduring trust with premium customers, suppliers and strategic partners.Customer-Centric Growth : Experience in account retention and expansion, driving revenue growth through long-term customer partnerships.Strategic Leadership : A visionary thinker who combines long-term strategy with disciplined execution.Change Leadership : Strong cultural intelligence and the ability to lead transformation while building engagement and alignment across teams.Commercial Discipline : A track record of delivering sustained growth through commercial acumen, operational excellence and disciplined account management.Safety & Service Orientation : Deep commitment to safety, compliance and customer service excellence as non-negotiable priorities.Accountability & Ownership : Takes full responsibility for divisional outcomes, with a leadership style grounded in integrity, accountability and high performance.What We OfferInnovative Culture : Join a business that values fresh perspectives, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Career Development : A senior leadership role with the opportunity to make a lasting impact and grow with Arrow.National Exposure : Play a key role in a growing, nationwide business with long-term opportunities.Autonomy : Report directly to the Managing Director with freedom to shape and grow the contract logistics division.Work-Life Balance : Enjoy benefits including birthday leave and access to a supportive, people-first culture.All enquiries will be handled with absolute discretion.This is a rare opportunity to lead a successful business through a critical transformation. Arrow is open to different paths to success – what matters most is your ability to drive growth while preserving what makes us special.