Operations Manager

About your role
The Larrakia Development Corporation is seeking an experienced and driven Operations Manager (Pre-Opening) to lead the planning and execution of all operational activities in preparation for the opening of the Larrakia Cultural Centre. The Centre will be a landmark destination celebrating Larrakia culture, creativity and connection, showcasing exhibitions, retail, performance, and community spaces.
This short-term contract position will play a critical role in ensuring the Cultural Centre is fully operational, commercially viable, and culturally strong from day one. For the right candidate, this role may transition into a permanent leadership position once the Centre is launched.
About what you'll do
Develop and implement the Centre's operational framework, including staffing, resourcing, systems, and day-to-day procedures.
Coordinate cross-functional teams and stakeholders to ensure all elements (facility, technology, security, maintenance, retail, gallery, hospitality, and events) are aligned for launch.
Lead the operational commissioning of the Cultural Centre, including timelines, risk mitigation, and opening day readiness.
Support the development and implementation of a sustainable business model for the Centre.
Work with the CEO to align the Cultural Centre's operational activities with broader strategic goals.
Draft and implement operational policies and procedures in line with best practice and Larrakia values.
Ensure compliance with relevant regulations (e.g. WHS, visitor safety, financial accountability, cultural protocols).
Contribute to the development of staff handbooks, training modules, and operational manuals.
Manage contracts related to fit-out, service delivery, and operational suppliers.
Coordinate with contractors, consultants, and service providers to ensure timely and quality delivery of operational elements.
Support commercial leasing arrangements for retail, food & beverage, or exhibition spaces within the Centre.
Support engagement with Larrakia Elders, community, and stakeholders to ensure cultural legitimacy and support.
About You / What you'll bring
Demonstrated experience in operational planning and delivery for commercial venues including retail, business or commercial venues. Experience in cultural spaces and tourism, highly valued.
Strong project management skills, ideally with experience in pre-opening or commissioning roles.
Experience in developing operational policies, procedures, and business systems.
Strong commercial acumen and ability to manage contracts and budgets.
High-level communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
A commitment to cultural integrity and the ability to work respectfully with the Larrakia people and community.
Experience in the arts, tourism, or cultural sectors is desirable
Experience working with Aboriginal organisations or within community-led projects preferred.
Knowledge of philanthropic funding, donor engagement, or sponsorship activities highly valued.
About Larrakia Cultural Centre
Our Vision is a living Larrakia culture for all Larrakia People now and for future generations.
Our purpose is a place for Larrakia people to share, celebrate and showcase Larrakia Country, Language, Culture and Knowledge with the world.
Larrakia Cultural Centre Limited is a not-for-profit organisation, providing art, language, cultural programs, cultural tourism, events and retail sales.
The Centre will include- meeting rooms, amphitheatre for performances, restaurant, kiosk, retail, exhibition, classrooms, men's and women's cultural areas and an arts workshop.
Construction is currently in progress and the Centre is anticipated to open in mid 2026.
To Apply
Please attach a cover letter and your current resume following the link.
Larrakia are encouraged to apply.
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