Rail Division Manager

Axia Recruitment are proud to be exclusively partnering with the West Coast Wilderness Railway in the recruitment of a Rail Division Manager based in Queenstown, Tasmania.

About West Coast Wilderness Railway:
The West Coast Wilderness Railway (WCWR) operates a 35km, narrow-gauge heritage tourist railway. As a vital part of the local community, it significantly contributes to regional tourism. The narrative of the west coast unfolds along the tracks originally laid in the 1890s. Today, WCWR continues to enliven the region's history, showcasing the ingenuity of our past while driving towards a progressive future.

About Your New Role:
As the Rail Division Manager, you will be at the heart of WCWR's mission to deliver an exceptional tourist experience while preserving the historical legacy of the railway. Your pivotal role ensures the railway operates smoothly, safely, and sustainably, reflecting the heritage and spirit of Tasmania’s West Coast.

You'll set the direction for the Rail Division, fostering a culture of excellence, safety, and continuous improvement. Your strategic insights will directly influence the growth and success of WCWR, making a lasting impact on the community and the regional economy.

Your New Duties will Include:
- Lead the Rail Division's strategy, crafting goals, and setting budgets to meet the overarching business objectives.
- Leading, supporting, and guiding the Rail Infrastructure, Workshop, and Rail Operations teams with a clear, robust operational plan.
- Offering expert technical and operational advice to ensure seamless and safe railway experiences that satisfy all commercial requisites.
- As part of the Executive Management team, contribute both strategically and operationally to the evolution of rail services.
- Collaborating with managers to proactively identify and mitigate risks, while orchestrating risk management strategies and asset renewal initiatives.
- Orchestrating a comprehensive program of works for rail operations, maintaining standards, adhering to schedules, and managing budgets effectively.
- Ensuring compliance with Integrated Safety Management Systems (ISMS), Workplace Health & Safety (WH&S), national rail safety laws, and internal policies, while providing compliance reports to management.
- Engaging with industry stakeholders, executive management, contractors, and suppliers to promote a professional image of WCWR.

Level of Responsibility:
- Maintain the safe and efficient delivery of all rail operations.
- Timely communication of significant business risks or issues to the Executive Management team.
- Adherence to WCWR policies and procedures, with authority to act as General Manager when required.

We Are Looking for Someone Who Has:
- Exceptional interpersonal abilities, with the skill to forge strong relationships and lead a diverse team effectively.
- High-level knowledge and management experience in operational rail requirements, including adherence to all relevant regulations and legislation.
- Demonstrated leadership prowess, with a track record of motivating multidisciplinary teams within a heritage operational context.
- Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills focused on operational risk management.
- Experience in project management, encompassing budgeting, procurement, and the execution of work programs in an operational setting.
- Excellent communication, able to translate technical standards into understandable terms for varied audiences.

About Your Working Environment:
WCWR is nestled in the beautiful, remote landscape of Tasmania’s West Coast, offering unique challenges and rewards. If you're not local to the area, support will be provided in regards to accommodation and relocation.

Your Qualifications and/or Experience Include:
- At least 15 years of practical rail-related experience.
- A decade of supervisory experience within a diverse, multidisciplinary environment.
- Eligibility for Rail industry category 1 medical clearance.
- C class driver’s licence.
  
Desirable additional experience:
- Experience in managing heritage assets.
- Background in managing heritage, tourist, or passenger railway operations.
- First Aid certification.
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.

How to Apply:
Should this opportunity align with your career goals, please send your application to *********@axiarecruitment.com, including a cover letter that highlights your skills and experiences pertinent to this role. Alternatively, apply through the provided link.

WCWR is a distinctive workplace that values history, innovation, and safety. We look forward to welcoming you aboard, steering towards new horizons together. Join us in crafting unforgettable experiences along the West Coast Wilderness Railway.

• Pioneering leadership in heritage rail tourism.
• Strategic leadership position with significant community impact.
• Contribute to regional growth and tourism.