Head of Processing Operations

It is an exciting time to join Stahmann Webster. With recent expansion of our farming and processing operations and future growth on the horizon, we are invested in building the senior leadership team to guide us into the next chapter of our journey. This new role have been designed to support our future growth while also ensuring our teams are supported and engaged.

Get to Know Us

At Stahmann Webster, our diverse team of dedicated people have been the driving force behind our success. As industry leaders, we are focused on attracting outstanding industry professionals to our business as well as building strong relationships within the community to identify and nurture future talent.

Our commitment to safety, to our people and to our community lie at the heart of our values.

• Growth mindset– We challenge ourselves and each other to never be standing still, we consistently strive to do things better.
• Empowered – We relish the opportunity to enrich and enlarge our roles, gripping autonomy and freedoms that matter.
• Resilient – We approach all challenges with positivity and determination, viewing every setback as temporary and surmountable.
• Connected – We are united around a shared purpose and never hesitate to support people in other parts of the business to be successful.
• Humble – We are dedicated to serving each other and always put the team first.

If this sounds like an opportunity you're excited for, we want to hear from you

The Head of Processing Operations plays a crucial role in overseeing the entire manufacturing process within our Toowoomba pecan facility. This position requires strong leadership skills, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of manufacturing operations. The Head of Processing Operations is responsible for ensuring the efficient and cost-effective production of goods, while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance.

Duties include but not limited to

• Develop and execute manufacturing strategies that align with the company's overall goals and objectives.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the manufacturing department, including production planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Monitor production processes to ensure efficiency, productivity, and profitability targets are consistently met or exceeded.
• Implement and enforce quality control measures to ensure that manufactured products meet or exceed customer expectations and industry standards.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, such as engineering, procurement, and logistics, to ensure seamless coordination and communication throughout the manufacturing process.
• Identify areas for process improvement and implement strategies to optimise production workflows, reduce costs, and increase operational efficiency.
• Manage and develop a high-performing manufacturing team, including hiring, training, mentoring, and performance management.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as sales, marketing, and finance, to align manufacturing activities with sales forecasts, demand planning, and budgetary constraints.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, industry standards, and quality management systems, such as BRC certifications.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices in manufacturing, and actively seek opportunities to leverage new technologies or methodologies to improve manufacturing processes.

Essential Criteria, Skills and Experience

• Strong leadership and management abilities, with the ability to motivate and inspire a diverse team.
• Proven experience in a senior manufacturing management role, with a minimum of 8-10 years of experience in manufacturing operations.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to analyse complex issues and implement effective solutions.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing manufacturing strategies that drive operational excellence and achieve business objectives.
• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing principles, processes, and technologies, including lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficient in using manufacturing software systems and tools, such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), and data analytics platforms.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated project management skills, with the ability to prioritise and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and practices within the manufacturing industry.
• Ability to adapt to fast-paced and changing environments, and work under pressure to meet tight deadlines.

What We Are Offering

• Competitive salary
• Enjoy a country lifestyle at our Toowoomba location

We Invest in You

• To develop your skills and safety knowledge – we provide funding for safety courses, certifications, and professional development courses.

• To support your family and meet your personal goals – with financial or in-kind assistance in times of need and through the Stahmann Webster Be Your Best program.

Build a long-term career in agriculture

• Career development opportunities –80% of our orchard leadership positions have been rewarded internally in our fast-growing business.

• Exceptional job security – our size and scope and long-term investment horizon provide opportunities for rewarding, long-term careers.

Make a difference

• Have your say– we encourage our people to provide regular feedback to our leaders and to the business by contributing our surveys.

• Be a part of a bigger purpose – we give back to our local communities and promote the health of our global environment through a range of purpose-driven initiatives.

And so much more

• Attractive SW Paid Parental Leave Policy – we support our new parents with an attractive SW Paid Parental Leave policy that supports both eligible primary and secondary carers.

• The People's Pantry– we provide a pantry of food items available to you whenever you need a little something to keep you going.

• Feel supported at work – we understand that sometimes "life-happens" and so through our wellness program we work with our people to ensure they can access any support they may need both personally and professionally.

• Enjoy a diverse and inclusive workplace– our people come from more than 20 cultural backgrounds, and we celebrate all of our communities, whether local or from around the country and around the world.

• Opportunity to travel – your role may offer opportunity, if you wish, for you to travel between our sites and experience different parts of Australia and our business.

What You Should Know About Our Operations

Our business is widespread, growing walnuts, almonds and bees in the Riverina Region in New South Wales, pecans in Moree and macadamias, avocados and mangoes in Bundaberg, Queensland.

Off the paddock, we operate nut processing and packing facilities in Leeton, Toowoomba and Bundaberg as well as fruit packing and processing in Bundaberg. In addition, our shared services teams (Finance, Sales, ESG, Safety and People & Culture) are located across all of our sites as well as the Brisbane, Melbourne and Griffith offices.

At Stahmann Webster, we are committed to the planet and the people we serve. Through research, innovation, and technology we strive to find exciting and environmentally sustainable horticultural and production practices throughout all of our operations.

Read more about our ESG Commitment on our website:

Not sure if this is the right role for you?

If you have any questions, please reach out to us at

If this role is not exactly what you're looking for but you would still love to work with us, please email us or complete the expression of interest form on our website linked below.

HONOUR OUR LEGACY. BUILD OUR FUTURE.