Head of Operations

Brown and Watson International – Knoxfield VIC

As the

Head of Operations , you will take the reins of a dynamic and

multifaceted

operation, leading warehouse, production, quality, and facilities management across our three key sites which include Knoxfield, Somerton, and New Zealand.

A critical leadership role that demands both strategic oversight and hands‑on execution, you will be instrumental in streamlining processes, integrating technology, and laying the groundwork for a scalable, future‑proof operation as the business continues to evolve.

Humble in your approach but clear in setting the expectations, you will balance tactical execution with longer‑term thinking to ensure day‑to‑day operational performance supports customer order fulfillment, inventory control, safety compliance, quality assurance, and overall operational excellence.

Leading with purpose, you know how to get things done, allowing you to build and embed a high‑trust, accountable culture.

Warehouse & Production Operations Oversight of warehouse and production teams across the three sites, integrating the sites under common leadership, processes and controls.

Quality Management Ensure consistent execution of quality assurance and quality control processes and compliance with standards.

Leadership & People Management Lead transparent, timely, and impactful internal communications to foster engagement and alignment.

Facilities Management Oversee facilities maintenance, safety, and service contracts across all operational sites.

Compliance & Safety Lead safety culture and drive safety performance aligned with the Amotiv and BWI safety frameworks and lead risk management and compliance across the three sites.

This role presents a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference, putting in place initiatives that will underpin and enable the continued success of our business.

Please note that regular travel to ANZ BWI locations will be required (Knoxfield in Melbourne’s East, Somerton in Melbourne’s north and Auckland, NZ), and travel to global BWI locations may be required (USA/China/Korea/Europe).

What will give you the competitive edge? You’re a proven leader who combines strategic foresight with strong operational and commercial acumen and are passionate about leading teams to deliver measurable, lasting impact. Ideally you will have;

Demonstrated experience and leadership of multi‑site operations in warehouse and/or production environments (5+ years)

Strong track record in lean manufacturing, automation, and supply‑chain optimisation.

Proven team leadership and cross‑functional collaboration skills.

Strategic mindset with a passion for continuous improvement and innovation.

Driving consistency in service delivery and operational standards nationally.

Ability to engage and work seamlessly cross‑functionally and can influence without direct authority.

Adaptability and growth mindset, know how to deliver results with agility in fast‑paced, evolving environments.

Proven people management skills— you’ve built, coached, and developed capability across operational teams in different locations.

What’s in it for you?

Work with an industry leader and subsidiary of ASX listed Amotiv Limited, one of Australia’s leading conglomerates of automotive aftermarket product brands.

Competitive salary and employee benefits, including staff discounts and employee assistance programs.

Structured leadership development programs and training opportunities.

Open and collaborative culture and management style with strong team environment.

A people‑first culture with a focus on wellness.

A chance to work across a group of businesses that are at the forefront of their industry and technology.

Who are we? Australian owned, Brown & Watson International (BWI) have led the way with an enviable portfolio of innovative and market‑leading brands that hold their own on a world stage within the automotive industry. Specialising in automotive electrical and lighting products, as well as portable power management and vehicle accessories, we have a stable of established industry names includes NARVA, Projecta, Philips Automotive, OSRAM, Vision X, Big Red Gear, KT Cable, BOAB, Maxi‑Lite, Twisted Throttle, Denali Electronics.

We are going places through both organic and acquired growth. With Headquarters in Melbourne’s South‑East, we have established offices and a strong presence that spans across all states of Australia and New Zealand, as well as South Korea, Sweden, and the USA.

With our people at the heart of what we do, we continue to foster a culture of excellence, and entrepreneurship that allows potential to flourish whilst keeping our customer at the forefront.

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