Operations Manager

Gardex is Western Australia's specialist in the supply and installation of medium to high-security fencing and gate systems, delivering for civil, infrastructure, utilities, renewable energy, industrial and government projects across the state.

We're investing in the people and systems to take the business through its next stage of growth.

We're looking for someone to build and lead an operation.

This is an opportunity to join a business with significant growth ambitions, take ownership of our operations, and play a key role in shaping the next phase of the company's journey.

About Gardex

At Gardex, we believe construction businesses are built on great people, clear systems and strong leadership.

We deliver projects for some of Australia's leading contractors and asset owners across sectors including:

• Civil Infrastructure
• Renewable Energy
• Utilities
• Transport
• Defence
• Industrial
• Government

As our business continues to grow, we're investing in our people, systems and operational capability.

Our goal isn't simply to become the biggest at all costs. Our goal is to become the best specialist fencing contractor in Western Australia-recognised for our people, professionalism, quality and operational excellence.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you'll take ownership of the operational performance of the business.

You'll be responsible for leading our delivery team, improving systems, developing people and ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently and profitably.

You'll have the authority to make decisions, improve processes and genuinely influence the direction of the business.

This is a hands-on leadership position suited to someone who enjoys building teams, solving problems and driving continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the operational profit and loss (P&L), driving project profitability through effective planning, resource allocation, cost control and operational efficiency.
• Lead and mentor Project Managers, Operations Coordinators & Admin Team, Logistical & Site Leadership Teams.

• Oversee the successful delivery of multiple commercial fencing projects.

• Develop and improve operational systems and procedures.
• Monitor project programmes, forecasts and operational performance.
• Manage procurement and resource planning.
• Build strong relationships with clients, suppliers and subcontractors.
• Support commercial decision-making and project reviews.
• Drive quality, safety and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop future leaders within the business.

About You

This is not a maintenance role. We're looking for an experienced operational leader who thrives on taking ownership, building high-performing teams, improving systems, driving operational excellence and contributing to the continued growth of the business.

You'll have proven experience in one or more of the following senior leadership roles:

• Operations Manager
• Construction Manager
• Senior Project Manager with responsibility for multiple project teams and operational performance

Within industries such as:

• Specialist Construction Contracting
• Commercial Construction
• Civil Construction
• Infrastructure
• Utilities
• Industrial Construction

Essential Experience

• Minimum 7 years' experience in commercial construction, civil construction, utilities, infrastructure or specialist contracting.
• Previous responsibility for managing multiple Project Managers, Site Supervisors or Leading Hands.
• Demonstrated responsibility for project profitability, forecasting and operational budgets.
• Experience overseeing multiple concurrent projects valued from $5M-$15M+ annually (or similar operational portfolio).
• Strong commercial understanding including labour productivity, procurement, forecasting and cost control.
• Proven experience implementing operational systems and process improvements.
• Experience leading workforce planning, resource allocation and scheduling across multiple projects.
• Strong client and stakeholder management experience.
• Demonstrated ability to recruit, mentor and develop operational teams.

You'll also bring:

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent commercial awareness.
• Experience managing multiple concurrent projects.
• Strong planning and organisational skills.
• High-level communication and relationship management abilities.
• A proactive approach to solving problems.
• The ability to build systems and improve operational efficiency.
• A genuine desire to mentor and develop others.

Industry-specific fencing experience is not essential. We value proven operational leadership and construction delivery experience above product-specific knowledge. We're looking for someone with the leadership capability to build a high-performing operation.

What You'll Receive

• Competitive salary package.
• Company vehicle.
• Performance bonus.
• Genuine autonomy.
• Opportunity to influence key business decisions.
• Long-term career progression into an executive leadership role.
• Opportunity to build your own team as the business grows.
• Stable pipeline of commercial and infrastructure projects.
• Modern systems with a strong focus on continuous improvement.

A professional, accountable culture where good people are trusted, supported and recognised for delivering results.

Why Join Gardex?

This is an opportunity to join a business where your contribution will genuinely shape its future.

You'll have the autonomy to implement improvements, develop people, influence strategy and leave a lasting impact on the organisation.

If you're an experienced operational leader looking for the opportunity to help build a growing construction business, lead a high-performing team and play a genuine role in shaping its future, we'd welcome your application.