Operations Manager

Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions Pty Ltd (RNM), a joint venture between Rheinmetall Waffe Munitions and NIOA Pty Ltd has established a state of the art forging and manufacturing facility in Maryborough QLD that produces artillery shell cases and other munitions-related products for supply to the defence industry.

What are we looking for?

As Operations Manager, you are responsible for overseeing and optimising all aspects of the manufacturing process and working alongside the General Manager in collaboration with the senior management team to execute the company vision by developing the company strategic plan and delivering the operations strategy.

Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions seek applicants who align with the company’s way of working to create a workplace where we value, respect and look out for each other, where we collectively deliver exceptional service and are continually challenged to grow and be successful.  We value diversity and are committed to an inclusive work environment.  We aim to build a work team of employees with varying gender, age, race, ethnicity, professional and cultural backgrounds.

The role has become available following the current incumbent nearing the end of a fixed term appointment to return to Germany following the establishment of the facility to operational mode on 2 - 3 shifts.  The site has a solid, stable and supportive leadership team with 2 Production Managers, a Maintenance Manager and Scheduler/Planner reporting to this position.

Key Accountabilities

• Collaborate with the General Manager and members of the senior management team to set and execute the company vision and the short and long term objectives.  Develop and execute the strategic plan for operations.
• Responsible for delivering product output to set production targets and production performance KPI’s, including weekly and monthly reporting as required.
• Translate strategy into actionable steps for your team for growth, implementing annual operational planning, goal setting and performance.
• Accountable for the overall company operations and employee productivity, building a highly inclusive culture that ensures team members can thrive and where organisational goals are met.
• Accountable for operational functions promoting achievement of plan with efficient scheduling, planning, operational production processes without compromising financial, safety, environmental or people processes.
• Oversee the maintenance of operational equipment and asset care to ensure the longevity of equipment.
• Ensure compliance with all legislation and take appropriate action when necessary.
• Co-ordinate the analysis of internal operations and identify areas for process enhancement.
• Support the Scheduler Planner with production planning and execution to meet company goals including the effective allocation and execution of resourcing including shift planning. 
• Lead evidence-based analysis of issues to identify controls or actions to mitigate any at-risk operational, maintenance or scheduling matters to minimise or eliminate impact to overall operational output.
• Work closely with the CFO and operational leadership team to prepare operational team budgets and conduct risk analysis on efficiency or improvement initiatives.
• Work closely with People, Culture and Safety Manager regarding the operational team culture and employee engagement including adequate capability and resources. Oversees operational staff recruitment, performance management, remuneration and development as required to achieve and maintain desired culture and employee retention.
• Oversee quality in the operations team, collaborating with the Quality Manager and the operational leaders to establish goals and processes to effectively manage quality in your area.
• Effective communication to inspire and motivate the operational team.
• Coaches and corrects team members to ensure compliance with standards.
• Lead change management/company and operational team project initiatives across the company in a highly supportive and encouraging manner for positive outcomes.
• Maintain a skilled, trained and engaged operations team for optimum outputs across the company aligned to the desired company culture.
• Foster a culture of evidence based decision-making and effective problem-solving activities.
• In collaboration with the WHSE Specialist and senior leadership team, define, communicate and implement the SMS and accompanying safety processes in your area to provide a safe workplace and ensure it is effective. 
• As an officer under the WHS Act, ensure current WHS knowledge and awareness of RNM’s risks, approve & implement adequate resources including for rehabilitation and suitable duties, partner with WHSE Specialist, monitor and assess for effectiveness.
• Foster a positive safety culture by promoting safe work practices, effective communication, supporting health and wellbeing and inspiring your leaders to develop and maintain strong safety knowledge, compliance and reporting.
• Ensure prompt and adequate investigation and resolution of safety incidents and matters escalated to you by your team in collaboration with the WHSE Specialist or LT as necessary. 
• Collaborate with Rheinmetall BU and NIOA business units to establish and maintain effective working relationships, reporting and continuous improvement, and in particular for learning and sharing of knowledge and technical excellence whilst always meeting security protocols.

Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience:

• Degree in Engineering, Business, Management or equivalent
• Intermediate to advanced manufacturing operational management experience
• Advanced leadership skills in leading teams and influencing culture
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in similar role accountable for operations, planning and maintenance.
• Intermediate planning and project management experience.
• Demonstrated ability to organise effectively, delegate responsibility, solve problems and communicate clearly
• Proficient use of MS Office software
• Drivers Licence
• Language – English – verbal & written - above average

Additional Requirements

• Fit to work in a sedentary role at a munitions manufacturing environment and perform the inherent requirements of this role including but not exhaustive of interaction with personnel – internal and external on occasions with competing interests, varying priorities and deadlines; physical requirements to regularly sit, stand, walk, use hands and reach with arms, talk and hear. Occasional requirement to stoop, kneel, crouch or manoeuvre heavier items using aids, occasional travel and varied work with competing priorities and timeframes. 
• Fit to attend the manufacturing facility frequently which includes manufacturing processes, moving machinery, traffic management, elevated noise levels, work at heights, electric and magnetic fields, heat treatment, CNC, surface treatment/chemical use, interaction with personnel, automation, computers & electronic devices where specific hazards and risks are outlined in area work instructions.
• Ability and resilience to work varied hours as required to achieve desired outcomes.
• Ongoing police/security screening and checks and permanent right to work in Australia.
• Travel required.

Benefits

• Join an exciting venture with a dynamic team focused on collaborative, hands-on ways of working for successful outcomes
• Work in a state-of-the-art facility created for technical excellence and expansion
• Work for a company that values people, exceptional quality and service
• Strong links to the global Rheinmetall & NIOA communities

To apply

Please submit your CV and a brief introductory letter outlining: 

• your alignment to working for RNM and our culture;
• your qualifications and experience aligned to our requirements; and
• your reason for applying for this role.