General Manager

Proud to be partnered exclusively with AWMA Water Control Solutions, an innovative Australian-owned company founded in 2000 that has grown to become one of the country's leading specialists in water control infrastructure.

Based in Cohuna, Regional Victoria, AWMA designs, manufactures, and installs high-quality, custom-engineered solutions including water gates, penstocks, stoplogs, bulkheads, flood barriers, automated debris screens, fish protection screens, flap gates, LayFlats, stopboards, and intake screens—all crafted to meet the unique demands of each project. With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and reliability, AWMA's products play a crucial role in supporting Australia's vital industries, from irrigation and flood mitigation to environmental water management and beyond.

As an award-winning business with a national and growing international footprint, AWMA is committed to excellence, delivering purpose-driven solutions that protect communities, enhance environmental outcomes, and drive long-term impact. I am seeking a proven operational leader ready to drive strategic growth and take the reins of day-to-day operations as General Manager of Operations. For the right candidate, this role offers progression to a broader General Manager position. This is your chance to join a dynamic, values-led organisation where your work directly contributes to building resilient infrastructure that safeguards water resources, supports agriculture, and combats climate challenges—making a real difference in the lives of Australians.

About the Role:

As the General Manager of Operations, you will report directly to the Managing Director and play a pivotal role in delivering the organisation's long-term strategic goals through best-in-class operational execution. Leading cross-functional teams, including engineering, procurement, and production, you will ensure that people, systems, and processes are fully aligned for efficient, safe, and profitable delivery of projects and products. This is a hands-on leadership role that blends high-level strategic thinking with operational rigour and team development. You will be based at the company's regional head office and manufacturing facility in Regional Victoria—a role ideal for someone seeking meaningful work and a real connection with their team, product, and community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead all day-to-day operational functions with a focus on planning, execution, safety, and continuous improvement
• Translate business strategy into efficient, scalable operational plans
• Drive performance, cost control, and on-time delivery across jobs and projects
• Embed a culture of safety, accountability, and high performance
• Coach, mentor, and grow capability within operational teams
• Lead operational readiness for business growth and innovation
• Identify and mitigate risks across operations, quality, and compliance
• Foster systems development, reporting, and use of integrated management systems

About You:

• Tertiary qualification in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or related field (essential); postgraduate/leadership qualifications or WHS certifications (desirable)
• 7+ years in senior leadership roles, ideally in manufacturing, design-oriented engineering, or project-based environments
• Proven success leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects/production on time and budget
• Track record improving systems, processes, and commercial outcomes; overseeing safety, compliance, and risk
• Experience guiding teams through change, growth, and continuous improvement
• Strategic thinker translating vision into operational plans; strong commercial acumen and P&L understanding
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills; proficient in workflow systemisation and integrated management systems
• Resilient decision-maker with high emotional intelligence, values-driven focus on people/safety, and comfort in fast-paced, ambiguous settings

Why Join?

• Be part of an Australian manufacturing success story with a growing national and international footprint
• Play a key executive leadership role that shapes the future of the business
• Work with a supportive, values-led leadership team committed to excellence and people development
• Make a tangible difference through infrastructure projects that serve critical environmental and community needs
• Enjoy life in regional Victoria—a lifestyle move with purpose and impact

Ready to step into a strategic leadership role with real impact? Apply now with your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your suitability. All applications will be handled with strict confidence. For a confidential discussion, contact Claire Palacio on /