Employment OS for your Business

Operations & Compliance Manager

Port Macquarie, New South Wales 2444, Australia • Full-time
AI Job Summary
  • At least 4 years in generalist HR, including WHS and employee relations.
  • Knowledge of SCHADS & General Retail Awards, Fair Work Act 2009, and NSW WHS legislation.
  • Demonstrated WHS compliance in prior roles and experience leading a WHS management system.

Role Type

On-site • Permanent • Full-time • Mid-level Senior

Pay Rate

$47.97 AUD – $51 AUD (Hour)

Description

Lead with purpose. Create impact that matters.

Lifeline Mid Coast is seeking a passionate and experienced Operations & Compliance Manager to lead our people, safety, and organisational excellence functions.

This is more than a management role, it’s an opportunity to shape a workplace where people feel supported, valued, and empowered, while ensuring the systems and frameworks behind the scenes are strong, compliant, and future-focused.

Every day, our work supports individuals in crisis and helps build a more resilient, suicide-safe community.

About the Role

You will report direct to the CEO, you will lead human resources, workplace health & safety, governance, and operational improvement across the organisation.

You will play a key role in:

  • Building and sustaining a capable, engaged workforce and volunteer community
  • Ensuring robust compliance with legislation and sector standards
  • Strengthening systems, policies, and operational efficiency
  • Supporting a positive, values-driven workplace culture

This is a dynamic and influential role suited to someone who thrives on both strategic leadership and hands-on delivery.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

People & Culture Leadership

  • Lead the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment, development, performance, and retention
  • Provide expert advice on employee relations, performance management, and workplace matters
  • Foster a safe, inclusive, and values-led culture where staff and volunteers thrive

Workplace Health & Safety

  • Oversee and continuously improve the WHS management system
  • Manage workers compensation and return-to-work programs
  • Ensure compliance with NSW WHS legislation and proactive safety practices

Governance & Compliance

  • Maintain up-to-date policies, procedures, and management frameworks
  • Support risk management and organisational compliance
  • Work closely with Lifeline Australia to meet sector standards

Operations & Continuous Improvement

  • Drive process improvements, efficiency, and system enhancements
  • Support adoption of technology and innovation (including AI where appropriate)
  • Lead initiatives that strengthen organisational capability and sustainability

Executive Support

  • Provide high-level support to the CEO and Board
  • Coordinate meetings, reporting, and governance processes

About You

You are a people-focused leader who combines strong HR expertise with operational insight and a genuine passion for making a difference.

You bring:

  • A tertiary qualification in HR, Business, or a related field
  • At least 4 years’ experience in a generalist HR role, including WHS and employee relations.
  • Sound knowledge of the SCHADS & General Retail Awards, Fair Work Act, and NSW WHS legislation.
  • Demonstrated practical application of WHS legislation in previous roles
  • Experience managing workers compensation and return-to-work processes
  • Strong communication, judgement, and relationship-building skills.
  • Australian citizenship is required for this position

Highly regarded:

  • Experience in not-for-profit, community, or health sectors
  • WHS qualifications (Cert IV or equivalent)
  • Experience with Employment Hero or HR systems
  • Understanding of crisis support services or Lifeline’s work
  • Proficiency with HR information systems (e.g., Employment Hero) and data analysis tools.

Why Join Lifeline Mid Coast?

At Lifeline Mid Coast, you’ll be part of an organisation where:

  • Purpose drives everything we do
  • People are treated with compassion, respect, and integrity
  • Innovation and continuous improvement are encouraged
  • Your work directly contributes to saving lives and strengthening communities

Our retail shops play a vital role in funding these services, making every part of our organisation connected to our mission.

Our Values

We live by:

  • Compassion – caring deeply and acting to support others
  • Integrity – being transparent and accountable
  • Respect – valuing every individual
  • Innovation – embracing better ways of working
  • Flexibility – adapting to community needs
  • Excellence – striving for quality and impact

Ready to make a meaningful impact?

If you are ready to bring your expertise, leadership, and heart to a role that truly matters, we would love to hear from you.

Apply now by submitting your resume and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to Patti Parsons: pparsons@lifelinemidcoast.org.au or Ph: 02 6581 2800.

Position Description