Operations Manager - Mental Health and Wellbeing Local

Lead one of Victoria's flagship mental health reform services

We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead a Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Bairnsdale, Vic. This senior leadership role gives you the chance to build, lead, and embed a values-driven service that delivers innovative, person-centred mental health support - not your average mental health program - making a real difference in the East Gippsland community.


Why This Role is Different

• True leadership scope: Shape operations, culture, and service delivery from the ground up
• Reform-led environment: Aligned with the Royal Commission and long-term government funding
• Innovative, people-first model: Lead a workforce of clinical and lived-experience professionals delivering unique, holistic care
• Meaningful impact: Hands-on, visible leadership with tangible outcomes

About the Program

Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals provide free, voluntary, and accessible mental health support for adults experiencing mental health challenges, including co-occurring alcohol and drug needs. Unlike standard mental health programs, these services operate with a "no wrong door" approach, prioritising choice, control, and holistic, person-centred care.

About the Role

You will provide hands-on operational leadership, overseeing all aspects of service delivery, workforce management, and performance. You will manage a large multidisciplinary team (~35 staff), supported by Team Leaders, administration, and a Clinical Director.

Ideal candidates are confident, emotionally intelligent leaders who thrive in complex environments and enjoy being visible and embedded with their team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support a multidisciplinary workforce across clinical and lived-experience teams
• Provide direct leadership to Team Leaders and operational support staff
• Oversee day-to-day operations, systems, and service performance
• Build a collaborative, inclusive, and values-driven team culture
• Implement and embed reform-aligned, innovative models of care
• Develop strong relationships with partner organisations and stakeholders
• Represent the service through community engagement and advocacy
• Balance operational delivery with continuous improvement and strategic leadership

About You

You are a people-centred operational leader with strong emotional intelligence and a practical, solutions-focused approach. You can confidently lead teams with diverse perspectives and navigate complexity.

You will bring:

• Senior operational or management experience in mental health, health, or community services
• Knowledge of, or strong exposure to, mental health reform and the Royal Commission environment
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams
• Collaborative, values-led leadership style
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and representing services publicly

Clinical qualifications highly regarded but not essential.

Requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualification (Allied Health, Nursing, Psychology, or similar highly regarded)
• Relevant professional registration (where applicable)
• Current Driver's Licence
• Right to work in Australia, visa sponsorship may be available for the right candidate
• Employment subject to standard pre-employment checks

Location & Flexibility

• Bairnsdale-based role (East Gippsland)
• Melbourne or interstate candidates encouraged to apply
• Flexible start date and relocation support available for the right candidate
• One day per week work-from-home (reporting focused)
• Work vehicle provided, with option to salary package

What's on Offer

• Purpose-driven, values-based organisation
• Salary packaging up to $15,899 per annum
• Meal & entertainment packaging up to $2,650 per annum
• 17.5% annual leave loading
• Paid parental leave after 12 months
• Employee Assistance Program for you and your family
• Long-term role security (ongoing position)

Interested?

If you have any questions or would like a confidential discussion about the role, contact Brock at Aligned Healthcare on [email protected] or at 0481 734 440.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTIQA+ communities, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Aligned Healthcare partners with community service organisations across Victoria to connect passionate practitioners with purpose-driven careers.