Lead the next chapter for one of Melbourne's most respected names in premium garden design, construction and maintenance.
Ian Barker Gardens has built an enviable reputation across Melbourne, and the business is entering its next phase of growth. We're looking for an experienced General Manager to take full operational leadership of the Ian Barker Group and drive that expansion.
The Opportunity
You'll inherit a business with real foundations. Established strategic plans, defined management systems and a solid reputation, with the mandate to build on them.
From day one, you'll take full operational authority across Ian Barker Garden Design, Ian Barker Landscapes and Ian Barker Gardens. You'll own P&L;, strategy execution and organisational performance, leading through a team of department heads rather than managing operational delivery yourself. You'll also lead a significant business integration in your first year, bringing a newly acquired studio into the Group's operating model as part of its expansion.
You'll report directly to founder Ian Barker and be supported by the group’s senior leadership team.
What You’ll Own
- Lead strategic direction set by the leadership group: revenue, profit, target market and the capabilities and management systems needed to win, with annual goals and performance targets set alongside the leadership group
- Full P&L; accountability, including setting budget parameters and profitability expectations for department heads to operate within
- Leadership of department heads: building their capability, ensuring they have the resourcing and authority to lead, and developing succession within that layer
- Business-wide performance monitoring across financial, client, quality and people metrics,
with the authority to intervene where gaps emerge
- Risk, compliance and governance frameworks appropriate to a multi-entity operation
- Workforce strategy: attraction, retention and career pathways across the group
- External representation with key partners, industry bodies and major stakeholders
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience as a General Manager, Director or CEO. This is a seasoned-leader hire, not a first step into senior leadership
- A track record of leading a business (or major business unit) through department heads, not by managing operational teams directly
- Strong P&L; ownership and whole-of-business strategic performance management
- Experience working across interdependent business units
- Landscape design, construction, and horticulture industry experience is a bonus but not a requirement. We're hiring a business leader first
What We Can Offer
- Work from our beautiful and recently renovated light-filled studio in Canterbury
- Free on-site parking is available
- Hybrid and flexible working options are available – we are strong believers in life first, work second
- Work alongside some of the industry’s most talented designers, landscapers, gardeners and operational staff
- Regular team lunches and social events across the wider company
How to Apply
If you’re ready for your next challenge and are keen to join our team, please click the APPLY button and attach your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining why you are the ideal candidate.
If you have any questions regarding this role, please contact our Marketing Manager, Chelsea Hadaway, at
[email protected] or by calling our office on (03) 9836 3130.
To learn more about Ian Barker Gardens and see what we're about, head to our website www.ianbarkergardens.com.au
📌 General Manager (Melbourne)
🏢 Ian Barker Gardens
📍 Melbourne