Lead hospitality, accommodation, transport & fitness support services at Robertson Barracks, NT — join Ventia as a Senior Operations Manager.
In partnership with the Australian Defence Force, we are seeking a Senior Operations Manager to oversee & manage our team at the Robertson Barracks.
What’s on offer
- Attractive Salary Package on/off commensurate with experience
- Challenging yet rewarding role managing a large blue-collar workforce
- Flexibility and variety in scope of role liaising with various stakeholders
- Ability to drive and create an inclusive culture aligned with Ventia’s values
- Safety First- At Ventia, we believe that every job should be done right, and that everyone should go home safely at the end of each day.
- Ventia have been awarded a 6-year Defence Base Services contract with opportunity for further extension.
- Ventia is recognised as a Veteran Employer of Choice by the Australian Government’s Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
About the role
The Senior Operations Manager will be accountable for the overall leadership, governance, and performance of a large‑scale hospitality and living services operation delivered under Ventia’s Defence Base Services contract at Robertson Barracks Military Area.
This role requires a senior and highly experienced operational leader with demonstrated capability in managing complex, high‑volume environments and leading substantial, multi‑disciplinary workforces. The position demands proven experience in workforce and industrial relations management, including the resolution of employee‑related matters, the management of industrial disputes, and effective engagement with unions and key stakeholders within a highly regulated Defence setting.
Through strong strategic leadership, the role will drive operational excellence, ensure consistent delivery of high‑quality services, and maintain positive, professional relationships with Defence stakeholders while upholding Ventia’s safety, compliance, and performance standards.
An introduction to the Living Working Services (LWS) Package of work
The LWS package of work represents a critical component of Defence capability support and encompasses the management and delivery of Catering, Cleaning, Accommodation Management, Laundry Services, Fitness Centres, Pest and Vermin Control, and Transport services across the base.
The role holds end‑to‑end responsibility for ensuring these services are delivered safely, efficiently, and in strict compliance with work health and safety, environmental, financial, and contractual obligations. The position demands strong governance, disciplined operational control, and the ability to manage complex service interfaces within a highly regulated Defence environment.
Key Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):
- Leadership & Team Management: Lead and manage hospitality service delivery across the Base and associated sites. Provide leadership, mentoring and support to team members to maintain service excellence for our customer. Foster a high-performance team culture and manage HR matters. Support the Base teams and work as a Team-of-Teams integrator and facilitator across the state and region.
- Operational Excellence: Drive operational performance, team productivity, and customer satisfaction. Manage, monitor and drive monthly productivity performance KPIs. Coordinate integrated services and support contract changes.
- Compliance and Governance: Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, financial, and contractual obligations.
- Stakeholder Engagement & Customer Service: Facilitate and lead regular stakeholder engagement meetings. Respond to customer inquiries and feedback professionally and promptly.
About you
- Tertiary qualifications in Business, Facilities Management, Hospitality, Logistics, or a relevant Hospitality & Catering discipline
- Demonstrated experience leading large‑scale operations with strong safety governance and regulatory compliance assurance.
- Strong communication, stakeholder engagement, and team development skills.
- Experience managing financial outcomes and applying contractual obligations to operational delivery.
- Minimum 3+ years’ experience in a services contract environment.
- A commitment to safety, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
Must be eligible to hold a Defence Security Clearance. As a result of this requirement the applicant must be an Australian Citizen and be willing to undertake and maintain a satisfactory Australian Federal Police Check.
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About Ventia
Ventia is a leading infrastructure services company, operating across Australia and New Zealand. Our clients are the owners and operators of assets that are critical to our local communities. We pride ourselves on working smart, safely and sustainably, harnessing the latest technologies and brightest minds. With a diverse and proud heritage, we have a track record of delivering essential services to the communities in which we operate.
Diversity
Ventia is enriched by the diverse experiences, talents and cultures that our people bring to the organisation, while celebrating and respecting the communities we operate in. We are committed to providing a safe and positive environment that provides equal opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, LGBTQIA+, Women, Veterans and spouses and people with disabilities.
How to apply
If you are looking to expand your career with a business that rewards and values its employees, please apply below by clicking on the apply now button.
Position Reference Number:165861
