About UsAt Lion, we’re helping shape the future of container deposit schemes across Australia and New Zealand - driving better environmental outcomes, stronger community impact and smarter industry collaboration.

The Container Deposit

Scheme (CDS) in Australia is a recycling initiative that allows consumers to receive a refund for returning eligible beverage containers, promoting recycling and reducing litter. Our CDS team works at the centre of government, industry and operations, partnering with beverage companies, scheme coordinators and regulators to help design, establish and evolve high-performing recycling schemes. From influencing policy and governance to launching new schemes and leading strategic transformation, we play a hands-on role in creating sustainable outcomes that deliver value for communities, industry and the environment.

The RoleReporting to the Head of CDS, you’ll operate across strategy, governance, operations and stakeholder engagement to help shape the future direction of container deposit schemes across Australia and New Zealand. The role can be Sydney-based, or - with significant work planned in New Zealand over the coming years - this role also offers the flexibility to be based in New Zealand while working in a flexible hybrid way. Occasional travel to Australia will be required, particularly for board meetings and during onboarding, with the team aiming to keep travel to what's genuinely needed.

This is a broad, high-impact opportunity suited to someone who thrives in ambiguity, enjoys solving complex problems and can confidently operate across senior stakeholder environments - Lead strategic projects and scheme transformation initiatives, including supporting major programme delivery across existing and emerging CDS schemes

Partner with government,



industry bodies and beverage partners to influence policy, operational outcomes and scheme performance

Support governance activities across multiple CDS boards, including contributing to strategic direction and board-level decision making

Lead commercial and operational workstreams including funding models, programme delivery, transition activities and establishment initiatives

Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders across government, industry and community organisations

Drive continuous improvement opportunities that improve scheme efficiency, sustainability outcomes and long-term value creation This is a unique opportunity to join a highly influential team working on nationally significant sustainability initiatives with real commercial and social impact.

About

YouYou’re a commercially minded, adaptable leader who enjoys working across complex and evolving environments. You bring strong strategic thinking, stakeholder capability and the confidence to operate across governance, operational and project settings. Significant experience in complex programme, transformation, restructuring, consulting, finance or operational leadership environments

Strong commercial and financial acumen, ideally supported by CA/CPA qualifications or similar experience

Experience working with boards, governance structures or executive-level stakeholder environments The ability to navigate ambiguity,



solve problems pragmatically and build structure in evolving environments

Excellent stakeholder management and influencing capability across government, industry and corporate partners A proactive, hands-on mindset with the ability to balance strategic thinking with delivery execution On Offer Purpose-led work - Help shape recycling and sustainability outcomes that create real environmental and community impact

Variety and complexity - Work across strategy, governance, operations, policy and programme delivery in a genuinely unique role

High visibility - Partner with senior leaders, government stakeholders and industry partners across Australia and Current Zealand

Growth on tap - Strong long-term development and succession opportunities

Great perks (yes, including the beer) - Competitive salary, a bar onsite at our office and access to events and experiences that make working in beer pretty special A culture you can feel - Open, inclusive and down-to-earth. We celebrate wins, learn fast, and look out for each other

Flexibility - Win in both your work and personal life, you don’t have to choose

Wellbeing matters - From mental health support to wellbeing initiatives, we’re committed to helping you feel your best - at work and outside it

Purpose beyond profit - As part of Lion, we’re committed to sustainability and doing the right thing for our communities and the planet

Iconic brands, real impact - You’ll be working on brands with history and heart, with the chance to make your mark on what comes next Apply

If you’re looking for a role where you can influence strategy, build meaningful partnerships and help shape nationally significant sustainability initiatives, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help shape what’s next at Lion.

📌 Senior Manager - Container Deposit Schemes (Sydney)
🏢 Careers
📍 Sydney