Chief Operating Officer

About The Organisation

Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation (RAC) is a CATSI corporation with a range of commercial subsidiaries created under the Corporations Act. As one of the largest Aboriginal corporations in Australia the organisation is sophisticated and complex with extensive and growing commercial interests. 

The Corporation is based in both Nhulunbuy and Yirrkala on the Gove Peninsula in the East Arnhem Land Region of Australia’s Northern Territory.  Nhulunbuy is a well serviced town and services hub and offers a unique lifestyle with access to a stunning coastline and recreation areas.

RAC subsidiaries include Rirratjingu Property Management and Maintenance Services Pty Ltd, Rirratjingu Enterprises Pty Ltd, Rirratjingu Investments Pty Ltd, Rirratjingu Mining Pty Ltd, Rirratjingu Fuel Pty Ltd and Rirratjingu Project Management Pty Ltd. 

About The Position

This position is an executive position within RAC working closely with the CEO and the finance division to form a cohesive team within a dynamic commercial, social and cultural environment. Effective communication and collaboration among the executive team will be an essential ingredient in building on the success enjoyed by RAC.

The COO will provide all necessary operational support and oversight to ensure RAC’s strategic and operational priorities are implemented on the ground.    

RAC is currently operating in a rapidly growing commercial environment. The impetus for recruiting this position is substantially reflected through the need for a person with a demonstrated high level of commercial acumen. The COO will be expected to contribute drive, leadership and oversight across our various commercial activities.

The position will also oversee a host of daily operations, including activities related to RAC’s, social, cultural, employment and training divisions.  

The COO will be responsible for achieving operational excellence. The position requires a results-oriented professional with a passion for leadership and cross-functional collaboration that contributes actively to a positive and productive workplace culture.

About The Responsibilities

The Chief Operating Officer’s Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the CEO and other executive team members in driving the organisation's vision and operational strategy. This includes implementing and refining business operational priorities as they align with the short and long-term commercial objectives of the RAC Board. 
• Working closely with the CEO, finance management team, and department managers to co-develop and monitor the organisation's budget and financial planning processes. This includes forecasting, resource allocation, and financial risk management to support strategic decision making and long-term financial health. 
• Oversee capital investments and operational expenses in conjunction with the CEO and board. This collaboration is key to meeting expectations for growth and profitability while ensuring the financial stability and sustainability of the organisation. 
• The provision of ‘traffic light' reporting to the CEO on matters of performance and outcomes aligned to the annual RAC strategic and operational plans.  
• Oversee the translation of strategy into actionable steps for growth, including organisation wide goal setting, performance management, and annual operational planning. 
• Provide leadership to organisational improvement initiatives, establishing standards for continuous improvement and quality in all business areas. This includes analysing internal operations and identifying areas for process enhancement to drive efficiency and effectiveness across the organisation. 
• Oversee HR processes, encompassing effective recruiting, onboarding, professional development, performance management, and employee retention, to ensure a skilled, motivated, and cohesive workforce. 
• Provide oversight for the company’s policies and practices, ensuring compliance with legal standards and promoting a safe and healthy work environment. 
• Lead initiatives to continuously improve performance and culture within the organisation. 
• Ensure the company’s adherence to national and local business regulations. Proactively manage compliance and take appropriate action to mitigate risks. 
• Build and maintain trusting relationships with key customers, clients, partners, and other stakeholders. 
• Direct and enhance company operations and employee productivity, fostering a highly inclusive culture that empowers team members and aligns with organisational objectives. 

About the Selection Criteria:

The necessary skills and experience required for this position will reflect demonstrated achievement in similar roles. While it is desirable that the successful applicant has previous experience working in a remote community setting it is not mandatory.

While no specific formal qualifications are assigned to this position consideration will be given to qualifications and experience in related fields. 

Essential experience and qualifications

• Tertiary qualifications in business, finance or similar.
• Five or more years of experience in executive leadership roles.
• Proven leadership ability and integrity.
• Strong judgment and a track record of prioritizing tasks and initiatives effectively according to business imperatives.
• Advanced understanding of strategic and operational planning and performance management and reporting.
• A sound appreciation of strong governance and regulatory principles and adherence to same.  
• An understanding of the issues and diversity of circumstances affecting Aboriginal people in contemporary Australian society.

Essentialskills

• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build effective relationships and communicate with a diverse range of people. 
• Demonstrated project management skills where you have successfully met project requirements.
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities in a complex and challenging work environment.
• Excellent organisational skills.

About Your Application

Your application should demonstrate experience consistent with the selection criteria and responsibilities outlined herein. You are encouraged to submit a covering letter with your application. All applications via Seek. 

Rewards and Remuneration:

Base Salary of $200,000 to $240,000 depending on qualifications and experience.

Employee Benefits to include additional travel allowance, housing support, EAP service, vehicle, laptop & phone.

Application via Seek

Application enquiries to *****@wearebac.biz

Position enquiries to ************@rirratjingu.com

Applications: COB Monday 26th February 2024