Operations Manager

About This Role

Operations Manager is a hands-on, high-ownership role overseeing the day-to-day distillery operations for an established Australian spirits business. The role involves leading a small team to ensure efficient production, exceptional quality standards, and the achievement of operational targets. It suits an experienced distiller, brewer, winemaker, or beverage operations professional with strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to confidently run a production site.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end distillery operations across distillation, fermentation, blending, bottling, and warehousing
• Manage production schedules, inventory, raw materials, and packaging to meet business demand
• Lead, coach, and develop a small production and warehouse team, including casual staff
• Maintain production quality, consistency, and compliance across all products
• Oversee equipment performance, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate maintenance and repairs
• Manage excise reporting, food safety, WHS requirements, and relevant regulatory compliance
• Drive continuous improvement across production processes, workflow, and operational efficiency
• Oversee the new product development pipeline and support product ranging reviews
• Collaborate with the commercial team on flavour development, product trials, and production scale-up
• Engage with customers, investors, and industry stakeholders, including representing the business at events
• Maintain accurate production records, inventory systems, standard operating procedures, and safety protocols

Requirements

• Experience in distilling, brewing, winemaking, or beverage manufacturing
• Strong understanding of production processes, quality control, and operational workflows
• Previous experience managing a production site or leading a small operational team
• Practical mechanical aptitude, with the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate repairs
• Strong planning, scheduling, and organisational skills, including managing multiple products and production timelines
• Understanding of workplace health and safety, food safety, and relevant production compliance requirements
• A hands-on, proactive approach with the ability to work autonomously and take ownership of operations
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with confidence engaging with customers, investors, and internal stakeholders
• An honest, open, and collaborative leadership style
• A genuine passion for craft spirits, product quality, and continuous improvement

Benefits

• Opportunity to join an award-winning Australian craft spirits business at an exciting stage of growth