Talent Right

is proud to partner exclusively with

Protoblast

to recruit an experienced and commercially minded

Operations Manager

to lead and optimise their manufacturing and project delivery operations.

This is not a maintenance-focused management role, Protoblast is looking for a leader who enjoys improving systems, leading people, driving accountability and helping a well-established business achieve its next stage of growth.

If you're the type of leader who enjoys balancing strategic thinking with hands-on operational leadership, influencing culture, improving processes and delivering results, this opportunity could be exactly what you're looking for.

About Protoblast Protoblast is an established Australian manufacturer specialising in industrial sandblasting, painting and dust extraction equipment. With decades of industry experience, the business designs, manufactures, installs and services bespoke equipment solutions for customers across a range of industrial sectors.

As a successful family-owned business, Protoblast has built its reputation on quality, innovation and customer service. The leadership team is committed to investing in continuous improvement, operational excellence and sustainable business growth.

About the Role Reporting directly to the owners, you will take ownership of the day-to-day operations of the business, leading manufacturing, projects, service coordination and operational improvement initiatives.

You will work closely with production, service, engineering and administration teams to ensure projects are delivered efficiently,



resources are effectively utilised and customers continue to receive exceptional outcomes.

This role combines operational leadership, people management and continuous improvement, making it ideal for a leader who enjoys creating structure, improving performance and developing teams.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the day-to-day operations of the business across manufacturing, projects and service delivery

Coach, mentor and develop operational leaders and team members

Drive accountability, performance and operational excellence across all departments

Oversee production scheduling and project delivery outcomes

Improve operational systems, processes and reporting capabilities

Lead continuous improvement and Lean manufacturing initiatives

Monitor operational KPIs, productivity and resource utilisation

Collaborate with engineering, procurement and service teams to ensure seamless project execution

Support workforce planning and capability development

Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, profitability and customer outcomes

Help position the business for future growth and scalability

The Ideal Candidate

Proven experience in an Operations Manager, Manufacturing Manager, Production Manager or similar leadership role

Strong manufacturing,



engineering, fabrication or project-based operations experience

Demonstrated success leading teams and driving operational performance

Experience implementing process improvement and continuous improvement initiatives

Solid commercial awareness and understanding of operational metrics

Confident leading change and building accountability within teamsAbility to balance strategic planning with hands-on leadership

Experience within custom manufacturing or engineered-to-order environments highly regarded

Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement or Operational Excellence programs desirable

Comfortable working within a family-owned or owner-led business environment

Culturally you will be Hungry, Humble and Smart

You are someone who enjoys making things better. You can identify inefficiencies, implement improvements and bring people with you on the journey. You build strong relationships, lead by example and enjoy helping businesses grow.

Why Protoblast?

Genuine autonomy and ownership within the business

Opportunity to influence long-term operational strategy

Highly visible leadership role reporting directly to the owners

Established Australian manufacturing business with an excellent reputation

Diverse role spanning operations, manufacturing, projects and people leadership

Opportunity to lead meaningful operational improvement initiatives

Supportive and down-to-earth culture

Significant opportunity to make your mark and help drive future business growth

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