Operations Manager

National Landcare Network | Canberra ACT

Part Time | 25 to 30 hours per week | Flexible working days

Fixed term until 30 June 2028 with potential extension subject to funding

$100,000 to $120,000 pro rata plus superannuation

Help strengthen the operations of Australia's national Landcare network The National Landcare Network (NLN) is seeking an experienced and proactive Operations Manager to lead our corporate and operational functions and help drive the next stage of organisational improvement.

This is an opportunity to take ownership of key business functions, improve systems and processes and develop initiatives that strengthen the capacity of Landcare organisations across Australia.

We are a small national organisation with a significant role supporting the community Landcare movement. We are looking for someone who combines solid financial and operational management experience with the ability to identify opportunities, lead change and deliver practical outcomes.

About the National Landcare Network The National Landcare Network is the national representative body for community Landcare across Australia.

We work collaboratively with State and Territory Landcare Organisations, government, industry and community stakeholders to strengthen and support the Landcare movement.

Our work focuses on enabling community led environmental outcomes, supporting volunteers and community organisations and building the long term capability of Landcare across Australia.

About the role

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the Operations Manager will be accountable for the effective management and continuous improvement of NLN's corporate and operational functions.

This is a hands on management role with responsibility for leading financial operations, strengthening business systems, overseeing corporate services and delivering organisational improvement initiatives.

A key focus will be completing the implementation of Employment Hero and introducing an organisation wide Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system.

The role will also work closely with the CEO and State and Territory Landcare Organisations to explore opportunities for shared services and initiatives that improve operational efficiency and build organisational capability across the network.

Key responsibilities





Operational leadership and continuous improvement

- Lead NLN's operational functions and ensure effective systems, processes and controls are in place.

- Identify and implement opportunities to improve efficiency, performance and organisational effectiveness.

- Develop and deliver operational improvement initiatives aligned with organisational priorities.

- Oversee corporate policies, procurement, supplier arrangements and business continuity processes.

Financial management

- Lead the organisation's finance function including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting and financial controls.

- Oversee financial administration, reconciliations, accounts payable and receivable and associated processes.

- Prepare financial reports and provide advice to the CEO, Board and Finance and Risk Committee.

- Coordinate financial audits, statutory reporting and financial components of grant acquittals.

- Ensure effective use of Xero and associated financial systems.

Business systems and organisational improvement

- Complete the implementation and rollout of Employment Hero across the organisation.

- Lead the implementation of an organisation wide CRM system.

- Improve business processes, reporting capabilities and information management.

- Identify opportunities for automation and improved use of technology.

- Manage ICT providers and key business system suppliers.

Building capability across the Landcare network

- Work with State and Territory Landcare Organisations to identify opportunities to strengthen operational capability.

- Explore and develop shared services initiatives including systems, procurement, insurance, HR and other corporate functions.

- Develop business cases and practical implementation plans for initiatives that deliver value to member organisations.

- Support collaboration and knowledge sharing across the national network.

People, corporate services and risk





- Lead operational HR processes and support effective employment systems and practices.

- Oversee corporate services including facilities, contracts, insurances and records management.

- Maintain effective operational risk, compliance and workplace health and safety processes.

- Provide leadership and oversight of external providers and corporate service functions.

About you

We are looking for an experienced operational leader who is comfortable taking responsibility for business functions while remaining actively involved in delivering outcomes.

You will bring

- Demonstrated experience managing finance and corporate operations.

- Strong financial management skills including budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting.

- Experience implementing business systems and leading organisational change.

- A track record of identifying and delivering continuous improvement initiatives.

- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and projects.

- Sound knowledge of HR practices, operational compliance and risk management.

- Excellent communication, relationship management and problem solving skills.

- A practical, collaborative and outcomes focused approach.

- Experience working in the not for profit sector, a peak body or membership organisation will be highly regarded.

- Experience with Xero, Employment Hero and CRM systems would also be advantageous.

What we offer

- A meaningful role supporting Australia's community Landcare movement.

- Flexible working arrangements with 25 to 30 hours per week and flexibility around working days.

- The opportunity to lead organisational improvements and influence how the organisation operates.

- A collaborative working environment within a small national team.

- The opportunity to develop initiatives that strengthen Landcare organisations across Australia.

How to apply

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role.

We have an immediate need to fill this position and will commence reviewing applications as they are received. Applications may close early if a suitable candidate is identified. Early applications are encouraged.

For a confidential discussion or any enquiries about the position, please contact ***@nln.org.au.

📌 Operations Manager (Canberra)
🏢 National Landcare Network
📍 Canberra