General Manager, Operations | Outback Spirit Tours

Be a part of sharing special places and shaping lasting memories with Australia’s leading experiential tourism business.

Outback Spirit Tours offers a range of unique adventure tours and luxury short stays across our beautiful country. Our adventures capture the very essence of Australia, from the rugged red cliffs of the Kimberley to the unspoiled natural wonder of Tasmania, we bring iconic experiences to life. We operate 10 lodges in some of the most remote, inaccessible and beautiful locations. Our team of guides, drivers, Lodge and operations staff are passionate about the outdoors and take pride in bringing our guests on the adventure of a lifetime.

Australia’s leading experiential tourism group, Journey Beyond, is privileged to operate 14 brands spanning the country, connecting guests to the land, and to each other. Headquarters in Adelaide, Journey Beyond’s impressive tourism brands include iconic trains The Ghan, Indian Pacific, Great Southern and The Overland; premium small-group outback operator Outback Spirit; the historic Telegraph Station, barefoot luxury lodge Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef; aquatic adventures Cruise Whitsundays, Rottnest Express, Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventure, Darwin Harbour Cruises and Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney; and our tallest members, Melbourne Skydeck and Eureka 89.

Joining the Journey Beyond family, you will play an integral role in supporting our business as we continue to share special places and shape lasting memories for our guests.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Reporting to the Executive General Manager, the General Manager, Operations is responsible for the leadership of the Outback Spirit Operations division and for overseeing the day to day running of all aspects of touring operations. The emphasis is on continuous improvement to ensure the highest quality guest experience, whilst leading the team and promoting a culture where staff are engaged and ambassadors of the business. This role requires a hands-on approach with intimate knowledge of our Australian destinations, touring programs and operational deliverables.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities include:

• Lead, develop, motivate and mentor the Outback Spirit Operational and Fleet management team. Clearly and regularly communicate the vision, mission and business plan objectives with the team and individuals alike.
• Demonstrate a hands-on approach by actively engaging in problem-solving, providing direct support to team members, and stepping in to assist with tasks to ensure project success and operational efficiency.
• Oversee the fleet operations, ensuring vehicles are maintained to superior and reliable standards, vehicles are rostered efficiently and planning covers fleet replacement and growth in line with business plans.
• Achievement and proactive management of the Net Promotor Scores (NPS).
• Achieving or exceeding the key financial objectives of the business, with a focus on revenue delivery through yield optimisation and EBITDA conversion through efficiencies.
• Maintain mutually successful and well cultivated relationships with key stakeholders, Government agencies and other operators to derive ongoing benefit.
• Contribute to the development of new products and experiences.
• Manage the effective maintenance, performance, and productivity of the asset base.
• Foster a positive work environment by encouraging open communication, recognising and celebrating team achievements, and promoting a culture of respect and collaboration.

This position is based in the Albury office with travel required to regional and remote areas to visit touring staff and suppliers and conduct on-tour quality control.

Relocation assistance available for the right candidate.

ABOUT YOU:

You will have a deep understanding of the travel industry, with previous experience in a senior operations management position. Ideally, in leading a multifaceted touring operation.

You will have a collaborative working style, be highly organised and be detail oriented. There will be a strong emphasis on continuous improvement to ensure and maintain the highest quality and distinctive Outback Spirit service, fostering an engaged, skilled and motivated team. 

You will also have the following skills/knowledge/attributes:

• Diploma, Degree or significant experience in management/operations/business or hospitality.
• Experience in leading a large team and managing complex operational challenges.
• Demonstrated experience in strategy/development and execution.
• Demonstrated expertise in financial management and performance measures.
• Strong analytical skills and be a strategic thinker.
• Comfortable in interacting with internal and external stakeholders.

Benefits

• Amazing opportunity to work in a dynamic, growing tourism business
• Generous discounts on Journey Beyond travel and experiences
• An attractive salary
• Study Assistance Policy
• Parental Leave program
• Purchased Leave policy
• A career with opportunities for progression, transfers, and secondments
• Employee Referral Policy
• Private Health discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounts on Journey Beyond merchandise

If you have a passion for travel and a love for sharing unique and iconic experiences through the delivery of an exceptional product, we would like to hear from you.

Apply now!