Aligned Leisure is a 100% owned subsidiary of the Richmond Football Club, established as a vehicle to manage the operations of Richmond’s health, fitness and leisure business activities. Supported by the people and business systems of the Richmond Football Club, Aligned Leisure currently operates 51 leisure centres, community stadiums, pools, gyms, theatres and other facilities throughout Victoria and New South Wales.
At Aligned Leisure, culture is paramount, and we are committed to developing our people in a supportive environment. Connecting to Thrive and Win is about connecting not only with customers, but also about staff connecting with each other with humour and care, through storytelling and authenticity, to build genuine relationships.
We are constantly on the lookout for talented individuals who fit our culture and either wish to learn a new industry or further develop their existing skills. If you have a passion for your local region, a focus on supporting your community and a desire to help us in providing the best level of service, we would love to hear from you.
Job Description
About The Role
The Group Operations Manager will lead operational teams and contract execution within their portfolio of partners. They will also lead key functions in the execution of Aligned Leisure’s Strategic Plan.
They will focus relentlessly on developing our people, our most important asset, and ensure they are aware of their behaviours and actions, connected to each other and the organisation, disciplined to execute their roles and relentlessly focused on the customer.
Reporting to the General Manager – Operations, the Group Operations Manager will have an intimate understanding of the objectives of our partners within their portfolio and ensure our operational plans are tailored to their unique needs while maintaining the overall Aligned Leisure philosophies, methodology, processes, and systems. They will oversee all aspects of the delivery of our partnerships within their portfolio.
The Group Operations Manager is a member of the Aligned Leisure Leadership Team. They will focus on the overall company objectives and sustaining and developing competitive advantages.
Key Responsibilities
1. Contract & Portfolio Management
Lead delivery of partnerships across your portfolio in line with partner expectations and business plans.
Build trusted relationships with partners through regular reporting, collaboration, and performance reviews.
Ensure financial sustainability and competitiveness of our operational models.
Manage onboarding of new partnerships and oversee negotiations, renewals, and extensions.
2. Team Leadership & Development
Coach and support operational leaders to drive team performance and engagement.
Implement performance and development plans aligned with business objectives.
Role model and embed the Aligned Person values, behaviours, and service standards.
Build a connected and disciplined workforce that is relentlessly focused on the customer.
3. Operational Excellence
Oversee implementation of localised service delivery plans aligned to partner needs.
Ensure compliance with contracts, legislation, safety standards, and internal systems.
Drive efficiencies across operations, using centralised systems and data where possible.
Promote ethical sales and retention strategies to meet revenue targets.
4. Organisational Leadership & Strategy
Contribute to organisational strategy, innovation, and new partnership opportunities.
Lead key projects aligned to Aligned Leisure’s strategic focus areas.
Enhance digital engagement and customer data acquisition through system improvements.
Support Richmond Football Club’s broader objectives within the Group structure.
5. Exceptional Customer & Stakeholder Experience
Aligned Leisure will be renowned for delivering outstanding service and memorable experiences for our customers. In your role, you will be relentless in identifying these opportunities, and you will always ask yourself, “How would I want a member of my family treated in this situation?”
Desired Skills and Experience
What We’re Looking For:
Essential Qualifications & Experience
10+ years' experience in business, sports administration, or community recreation.
Strong background in the sport and leisure industry.
Experience managing government contracts (preferred).
Proven skills in customer experience, marketing, and sales management.
Relevant tertiary qualifications in sport or business (preferred).
Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets and models.
Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder relationship-building skills.
Ability to interpret business data and develop operational solutions.
Personal Attributes
Ability to work autonomously.
Disciplined to focus on what is essential and get the job done.
Focused on the customer.
Resilient to remain energised and positive when faced with adversity.
Strong presentation and advisory skills.
Understands, enjoys and is highly motivated in sport and leisure.
Solutions focused.
Ability to professionally develop people and teams.
Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to take on a meaningful leadership role within a values-driven organisation backed by one of Australia’s most iconic sporting clubs. At Aligned Leisure, you’ll make a real difference in the communities we serve while continuing to grow your leadership impact in a dynamic, supportive environment.
APPLICATIONS: Applications close Sunday 24th of August 2025, but will be assessed on a rolling bases. Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
