We are seeking an experienced Programme Manager to lead the delivery of a portfolio of strategic business initiatives within a growing Australian manufacturing organisation.

Reporting to the Executive Leadership Team, this role will be responsible for coordinating complex, cross-functional programs that improve operational performance, enhance capability and support long-term business growth.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring exceptional programme management capability, commercial acumen and the ability to influence senior stakeholders while driving outcomes across multiple business functions.

Programme Manager - 12 month contract

Lead Strategic Transformation

We are seeking an experienced Programme Manager to lead the delivery of a portfolio of strategic business initiatives within a growing Australian manufacturing organisation.

Reporting to the Executive Leadership Team, this role will be responsible for coordinating complex, cross-functional programs that improve operational performance, enhance capability and support long-term business growth.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring exceptional programme management capability, commercial acumen and the ability to influence senior stakeholders while driving outcomes across multiple business functions.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead the planning and delivery of multiple strategic business initiatives.

- Develop and maintain integrated programme plans, governance frameworks and reporting.

- Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure projects are delivered safely, on time and within budget.

- Identify and manage programme risks, dependencies and critical milestones.

- Partner with Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering, Quality, Commercial and Corporate Services to deliver sustainable business outcomes.

- Prepare executive reporting,



steering committee updates and business cases.

- Drive accountability across workstreams while fostering collaboration and continuous improvement.

- Support change management activities to ensure successful adoption of recent processes, systems and ways of working.

About You

You are an experienced programme or project leader who thrives in complex manufacturing environments and enjoys turning strategy into execution.

To be successful, you will demonstrate:

- Proven experience leading large-scale programmes within manufacturing, food manufacturing, FMCG or industrial operations.

- Strong understanding of manufacturing operations and the practical realities of delivering change in operational environments.

- Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills, with experience working closely with executive leadership.

- Strong commercial and analytical capability.

- Experience managing multiple concurrent projects with competing priorities.

- A collaborative leadership style with the ability to influence without direct authority.

- A disciplined, structured approach to programme governance balanced with a pragmatic, delivery-focused mindset.

Desirable Experience

- Experience delivering operational improvement, capital investment, business transformation or supply chain initiatives.

- Formal project management qualifications (PMI, PRINCE2, MSP or equivalent).

- Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations or Business degree.

What We Offer

- A rare opportunity to lead strategic transformation within an established Australian manufacturer.

- High levels of executive exposure and influence.

- A collaborative and values-driven leadership team.

- Competitive remuneration package.

- The opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future direction of the business.

All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality.

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📌 Programme Manager (New South Wales)
🏢 Illawarra Mercury Job Board
📍 New South Wales