Manager, Operational Excellence & Quality

Freo Group Pty Ltd

As a part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings—which is backed by Berkshire Hathaway—you’ll be doing things that matter, leading at every level, and winning a better way. We’re committed to making a positive impact on the world, providing you with diverse learning and working opportunities, and fostering a culture where everyone’s empowered to be their best.

Freo Group, part of the Marmon Group and backed by Berkshire Hathaway, offers the best of both worlds: the strength, stability and governance of a global organisation, combined with the agility and autonomy to make a real impact every day.
We are seeking an experienced and delivery-focused Manager – Operational Excellence & Quality, reporting to the VP Finance / Chief Financial Officer, to lead the development and embedding of operational excellence, quality and Lean practices across our national crane services business.
This role is central to driving disciplined, efficient and repeatable operations that improve safety, performance and financial outcomes across Mining, Oil & Gas, Renewables and major Infrastructure projects.

About the Role

Reporting to the VP Finance / CFO, the Manager – Operational Excellence & Quality is responsible for embedding structured operational systems, quality frameworks and Lean continuous improvement methodologies that support safe, compliant and financially sustainable operations.

Key responsibilities include:

• Operational Excellence & Lean Frameworks
  Develop, implement and sustain operational excellence frameworks underpinned by Lean principles, standard work, visual management and continuous improvement disciplines.

• Quality Management Systems (QMS)
  Own and continuously improve the Quality Management System, ensuring it is practical, embedded in frontline operations and aligned with customer, contractual and regulatory requirements.

• Lean Continuous Improvement
  Lead Lean initiatives focused on waste reduction, process simplification, flow improvement and productivity uplift across fleet operations, project delivery and support functions.

• Performance Improvement & Problem Solving
  Apply structured problem-solving tools (e.g. root cause analysis, value stream mapping, Kaizen) to address recurring operational issues impacting safety, cost, quality and service.

• Operational Risk & Loss Reduction
  Partner with operational leaders to identify and reduce sources of operational risk, rework, downtime and cost leakage, with a clear focus on measurable financial and safety outcomes.

• Stakeholder Engagement & Capability Building
  Work closely with Operations, Safety, Fleet, HR and Commercial teams to build Lean capability, embed a culture of continuous improvement and drive ownership at all levels of the organisation.

What We’re Looking For

You are a systems-oriented operational excellence professional who understands how Lean disciplines drive safety, quality, productivity and cost performance in asset-intensive environments. You are comfortable influencing operational teams while maintaining independence through a CFO reporting line.

Ideally, you will have:

• 5+ years’ experience in operational excellence, quality or continuous improvement roles (essential).

• Demonstrated hands-on experience applying Lean methodologies in operational environments (essential).

• Experience in asset-heavy, safety-critical industries such as cranes, heavy transport, Mining, Oil & Gas, Renewables or Infrastructure (essential).

• Strong understanding of quality management systems and ISO 9001 principles.

• Proven capability in Lean tools such as value stream mapping, standard work, visual management, Kaizen and root cause analysis.

• Strong analytical, organisational and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement capability across frontline and executive teams.

• Ability to work autonomously while influencing outcomes across a national, decentralised organisation.

• Relevant qualifications in Lean, continuous improvement, quality, engineering or operations (desirable).

What’s on Offer

Joining Freo Group as Manager – Operational Excellence & Quality provides a genuine opportunity to embed Lean thinking across a national crane services business. You will play a critical role in improving operational discipline, reducing waste and supporting safe, reliable and financially sustainable operations.

We offer competitive remuneration, strong professional development opportunities, and a culture that prioritises safety, accountability and inclusion — because at Freo, everyone deserves to go home safe and proud of the work they deliver.

How to Apply

Please click ‘APPLY NOW’ and follow the application process. We thank all applicants for their interest and will respond to all suitable candidates as soon as possible.

Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law.