National Operations Manager – Heavy Vehicle Parts & Engineering - Bayswater VIC
Respected industry leader | Pathway to General Manager | National Scope
Bayswater, Victoria
Join Australia's leading heavy vehicle power steering specialist
National operational leadership role across four interstate branches
Clear succession pathway to General Manager within 3-5 years
Attractive remuneration package: Negotiable circa $150,000 + Superannuation + Car Allowance
The Company
Hydrosteer is a well-established Australian engineering business and market leader in the design, remanufacture, supply and support of heavy vehicle power steering systems and components for both OEM and aftermarket customers.
With a strong reputation built on technical expertise, product quality and customer service, Hydrosteer supports heavy vehicle operators, workshops and distributors throughout Australia from its national branch network.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the business owners, the National Operations Manager will play a pivotal leadership role in driving operational excellence, branch performance and sustainable growth across Hydrosteer's national footprint.
This is far more than a traditional operations role. You will be a key contributor to strategic business decisions, providing the critical link between customer needs, workshop production, inventory management and commercial outcomes.
The successful candidate will lead and support interstate teams, improve operational efficiency, strengthen customer relationships and help position the business for its next stage of growth.
This position offers a genuine opportunity to progress into a General Manager role within the next 3-5 years.
Key Responsibilities
Lead national operations across four branch locations
Chair and facilitate fortnightly operations meetings
Drive operational governance and consistency across all sites
Monitor branch performance through KPI development and reporting
Manage workshop productivity, labour utilisation and production outcomes
Oversee fleet, plant and equipment management
Drive inventory optimisation and stock performance initiatives
Support heavy vehicle parts sales growth through operational alignment
Collaborate closely with Sales and Purchasing Managers to maximise business outcomes
Implement continuous improvement and operational excellence initiatives
Lead, mentor and develop branch managers and workshop leadership teams
Support key customer relationships and major account initiatives
Contribute to strategic planning, business development and succession planning initiatives
Key Requirements & Qualifications
Experience
Minimum 7 years' experience in multi-site operational leadership
Background within heavy commercial vehicles, automotive engineering, component remanufacturing, truck parts, industrial services or related sectors
Demonstrated success managing geographically dispersed teams and branches
Commercial Capability
Proven track record in heavy truck parts sales and aftermarket operations
Strong understanding of sales support, inventory management and profitability drivers
Experience aligning operational performance with commercial objectives
Leadership
Demonstrated ability to build, mentor and hold teams accountable
Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
Experience managing branch managers, workshop supervisors and technical personnel
Operational Expertise
Strong understanding of workshop operations, quality systems and production management
Experience with labour efficiency, scheduling and capacity planning
Proven ability to implement process improvements that drive measurable results
Financial & Business Acumen
Experience managing operating budgets and cost control initiatives
Strong understanding of inventory performance, stock turns and asset utilisation
Ability to analyse performance data and make informed business decisions
Technical Knowledge
Sound knowledge of heavy vehicle components and systems
Experience within power steering, drivetrain, suspension, hydraulic or related mechanical systems will be highly regarded
Systems & Travel
Competent with business reporting systems
Willingness to undertake periodic interstate travel as required
Qualifications
Qualifications in Business, Operations Management, Engineering, Automotive Technology or a related discipline will be highly regarded
What's On Offer?
Senior leadership role with significant influence across the business
National responsibility and broad operational exposure
Opportunity to work directly with business owners
Strong and established Australian brand with market-leading position
Supportive and collaborative leadership environment
Clear pathway to General Manager succession
Attractive remuneration package including car allowance
Long-term career opportunity within a growing business
How to Apply
Please apply by clicking on the big big red "Apply for this job" button, complete the online form - select job reference number 26024 - and attach your CV.
If you require clarification before applying, please call or message Laurie Williams on 0412 523 168. (All enquiries strictly confidential)
Please note
We can only consider applicants with the necessary citizenship or residency status that provides permanent and unrestricted work rights in Australia. The employer is not offering sponsorship.
