About SAGE

SAGE is Australasia’s leading advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion in the education and research sector. We’re the guide our region's brightest minds turn to when they want a vibrant workplace where everyone can thrive.

Using an evidence-based and impact-focussed framework, we help institutions build systemic, structural and cultural change. Our world-respected Athena Swan accreditation program drives and measures progress against international benchmarks.

About the Role

The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing and optimising the day-to-day operations of SAGE to ensure the organisation runs efficiently and effectively. The role is a key support to ensure the goals and initiatives of SAGE Ltd. are accomplished within designated timeframes and budget. This includes overseeing human resources, government grant management, and operational systems. The Operations Manager works closely with the Finance and Business Manager to support financial sustainability and program delivery.

The role of Operations Manager, reports to the CEO. The role currently has one direct report.

Operational Management

• Drive efficient and effective administration of the SAGE office; including but not limited to coordinating monthly project reports, tracking team action-items and documenting project outputs, proof-reading and editing papers, supporting the board of directors and steering committees.
• Drive high performance and quality outcomes across the Office, providing effective monitoring, evaluation and reporting of the outputs relating to findings, budgets, financial statements and other matters as required.
• Organise and manage the CEO’s diary, including scheduling meetings and coordinating appointments.
• Prepare documentation or reports as required for governance and compliance requirements, and specific meetings (such as for board meetings, steering committees) and/or interviews.
• Track and report key metrics related to operations, HR, and grants.
• Prepare reports for the board, funders, and stakeholders.
• Implement and maintain technology systems to enhance operations.
• Ensure data security and compliance with relevant standards.

Strategy development

• Work with the CEO and Program Directors to develop and maintain the development and implementation of the SAGE’s strategic plan. Identify opportunities for operational improvement and innovation to enhance impact.

Grant Management

• Oversee grant compliance, reporting, and budgeting, and prepare detailed reports.
• Collaborate with the Finance Manager to track grant performance and expenditure.

Human Resources

• Lead and manage recruitment, onboarding, performance reviews, and workplace compliance
• Manage employee relations and foster a positive workplace culture.

Financial collaboration

• Work with the Finance Manager on budgets, forecasts, and procurement to align operations with financial plans.
• Oversee procurement processes to ensure cost-effectiveness

Stakeholder engagement

• Act as the operational liaison with government agencies, funders, vendors, partners, external service providers, including negotiating contracts, with input from legal.
• Contribute to the development of strategic communications to deliver critical messages to key stakeholders regarding relevant issues and developments, including in relation to the SAGE programs.

Knowledge, experience and capabilities

Required to perform this role effectively

Essential Skills:

• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written communication and interpersonal abilities, ability to write high level reports to senior stakeholders and government departments.
• Highly proficient computer literacy with excellent skills in using office and project management software.
• Excellent time management skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities and work to tight deadlines.
• Analytical skills to track and interpret key performance indicators.
• Process oriented with exceptional attention to detail.

Experience Required:

• Proven experience in operations management, preferably in a non-profit or similar setting.
• Experience with HR management, including recruitment, performance management, and compliance.
• Familiarity with managing government grants, including financial tracking and reporting.
• Understanding risk management and compliance processes.

Desirable Experience:

• Knowledge of financial management and budgeting.
• Experience in project management or process improvement.
• Familiarity with workplace health and safety standards.

Terms of appointment

Salary package ($100,000 to $130,000 - excluding 11.5% superannuation contribution) commensurate with expertise and experience.

This is a fixed-term, part-time/full-time contract for 5 years, with the possibility of extension.

SAGE is a remote workplace; however, we will be opening an office in Sydney.

How we work

SAGE is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and the provision of a safe and healthy work environment. We value our staff and encourage our employees to be adaptable and collaborative. Our staff are key to our success.

We offer a supportive and innovative workplace culture that values results and continuous improvement. Our flexible working arrangements allow for a balanced approach to work and life, and we are committed to ongoing learning and development. In addition to 20 days of annual leave, we provide three additional Christmas leave days, personal leave, as well as reproductive healthcare leave to support our team members' well-being.

next steps

People with diverse identities and lived experiences are strongly encouraged to apply. Research shows that while men apply to jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women and people from marginalised groups tend to only apply when they meet all the criteria. If you think you could do this job, but don't necessarily meet every single point on the job description, please apply or get in touch anyway. We'd love to hear from you.

Further information on the position is available from:

Name: Janin Bredehoeft

Email: [email protected], using the subject line: Operations Manager enquiry via EthicalJobs.

To be eligible to apply for this role you must be legally permitted to work in Australia.