About us Ports North is responsible for the development and management of port facilities vital to the economic growth of Cairns and regional centres in Far North Queensland. The Corporation has extensive property, marina, tourism and cargo facilities in Cairns and its regional ports.

About the role Ports North is seeking an experienced and strategic Sustainability & Environment Manager to lead the organisation's sustainability and environmental team. Reporting to the General Manager Infrastructure & Sustainability, this role is responsible for driving environmental stewardship, sustainability performance and compliance across the Corporation's operations, assets and development projects. The Sustainability and Environment Manager will provide expert leadership and advice to senior management, oversee environmental approvals and compliance programs, develop and implement sustainability initiatives, and build robust relationships with regulators, stakeholders and industry partners. This is a key leadership role that will influence business strategy, support long-term environmental outcomes and contribute to Ports North's commitment to sustainable growth.

Main responsibilities will include:

- Leading and developing the Sustainability & Environment team.
- Developing and implementing sustainability and environmental strategies, policies and programs.
- Providing high-level environmental and sustainability advice to the Executive Leadership Team and broader business.
- Ensuring compliance with environmental legislation, regulations, approvals and licence requirements.
- Overseeing environmental risk management and mitigation strategies across operations and projects.
- Leading environmental approval processes for maintenance, development and capital works projects.
- Driving sustainability initiatives and reporting across the organisation.
- Building and maintaining productive relationships with government agencies, industry stakeholders, tenants and community groups.




- Identifying opportunities for continuous improvement and innovation in sustainability and environmental management.
- Promoting a strong culture of safety, accountability and environmental responsibility.

Skills and Experience

- Minimum Bachelor's degree in Sustainability, Environmental Engineering or Science, Environmental Management, or a related discipline.
- Proven experience leading teams and managing cross-functional programs or projects.
- Demonstrated experience (10+ years) in sustainability, environmental management, or a related field, including delivery of organisation-wide initiatives.
- Experience developing and implementing sustainability strategies, including integration into business operations and decision-making.
- Strong understanding of environmental risk management, regulatory frameworks, and sustainability reporting requirements.
- Experience engaging with external stakeholders, including government, industry, and community groups.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to advocate and promote sustainability and environmental outcomes internally and externally.
- Ability to provide strategic advice and remain informed on emerging sustainability and environmental trends, risks, and opportunities.

About you - You are a team-oriented and influential leader with a passion for sustainability and environmental excellence. You bring strong commercial awareness combined with a proactive approach to identifying opportunities that deliver both environmental and business outcomes. You are confident engaging with stakeholders at all levels, thrive in a dynamic environment and are committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation and accountability. If you are looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact and lead sustainability outcomes across one of Far North Queensland's most significant infrastructure organisations, we encourage you to apply.

Persons interested in exploring this excellent opportunity are invited to submit an application that includes details of experience and qualifications by 9am Monday 28th September 2026.

📌 Sustainability and Environment Manager (Cairns)
🏢 Ports North
📍 Cairns