Operations Director

Join the e61 Institute as our next
Operations Director

Are you a strategic thinker who thrives on turning big ideas into sustainable, day-to-day operations? Do you enjoy creating the structures that help high-performing teams do their best work? The e61 Institute is seeking an exceptional
Operations Director
to take our established operations to the next level through system innovation, process improvement, and ensuring our research team has everything they need to deliver high-impact research that informs policy.

As a critical part of the executive leadership team at one of Australia's best economic policy think tanks, this role is perfectly suited for someone who has a passion for public value, economic research, and social impact and proven experience in executive-level operations.

If you ….

• have a track record of converting organisational strategy into operational excellence and measurable outcomes
• can take initiative and work autonomously just as well as they can collaborate
• value and prioritise team cohesion and alignment around common ambitions
• sets high standards for yourself and your work
• can demonstrate sound judgment and high emotional intelligence in managing yourself and others.
• lead your teams by doing

….then we are looking for you

Why Join e61?

e61 is an independent economic research institute committed to producing high-impact research that shapes the national conversation.

We offer:

• A mission-driven environment
  – Contribute to work that improves Australia's economic decision-making
• Real operational responsibility
  – Lead the full operations function, enabling research and engagement teams to thrive
• Supportive, collaborative culture
  – Join a team that values transparency, mutual respect, and continuous improvement
• Work-life balance
  – Flexible work arrangements and a strong focus on wellbeing

About the role

As
Operations Director
, you will be responsible for overseeing and improving all core internal functions — from finance and HR to legal, systems, compliance, and IT. Working closely with the CEO, you will ensure the Institute's operational environment is robust, scalable, and aligned with our purpose.

You'll take a hands-on approach to ensure that the systems, tools, and processes across the organisation are enabling the research and engagement arms of the Institute to succeed.

This role is ideal for someone with strong operational and people leadership experience who enjoys building and improving systems that enable mission delivery.

What you'll be doing

• Lead day-to-day internal operations across finance, HR, legal, IT, and compliance
• Drive continuous improvement of systems and processes to support a growing organisation
• Oversee budgeting, financial reporting, audit readiness, and funder compliance
• Coordinate operational support for research, events, and communications activities
• Ensure governance and legal obligations are met on time and to a high standard
• Champion a values-driven, inclusive culture and support staff wellbeing
• Manage internal delivery of organisational goals, work plans, and KPIs
• Act as a key support to the CEO, freeing up their capacity for external partnerships and strategic priorities

What we're looking for

• 6+ years' leadership experience across operations, ideally in research, policy, or mission-driven organisations
• Expertise across finance, HR, legal, compliance, and organisational systems
• A track record of delivering operational improvements
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• A hands-on, team-oriented approach and a strong alignment with our mission and values

What success looks like

• Internal operations run smoothly and support the research and engagement teams
• Systems and processes are efficient, scalable, and continuously improving
• Financial reporting and compliance obligations are met on time
• The
  Operations Director
  is a trusted, effective internal leader and partner to the CEO
• Staff feel supported, engaged, and set up to succeed

Location:
Sydney (hybrid working arrangements available)

Eligibility:
You must have the right to work in Australia

How to apply

Please submit the following:

• A short Cover Letter (1–2 pages) explaining why you're interested and how your experience fits
• Your Resume (max 2 pages)
• Confirmation of your right to work in Australia

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For a confidential conversation about the role, please reach out to