Recycling Operations Manager

Robert Walters is proud to be partnering with COEX, the not-for-profit organisation responsible for delivering Queensland’s Containers for Change scheme. About COEX COEX is the not-for-profit organisation appointed to manage and grow Queensland’s Containers for Change refund scheme. Since 2018, the organisation has kept over 12 billion containers out of landfill and returned more than $1 billion in 10c refunds to Queenslanders.

From driving sustainability and innovation to creating real impact in communities, the team is united by a shared commitment to increasing circularity outcomes and ensuring no container goes to waste. Watch the video below to hear from the COEX team and why they are proud to be part of the change.

About the Role:

An opportunity has arisen for a Recycling Operations Manager to join the Brisbane-based team. Reporting to the General Manager Operations, this senior role is responsible for overseeing the performance of COEX’s recycling network, including Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), bottle crushers, processors and recyclers.

You will lead key commercial partnerships, ensuring strong operational performance, compliance, and value delivery across the network, while driving continuous improvement and circular economy outcomes.

This role will also involve travel across Queensland and interstate as required.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage relationships with recycling network partners and key stakeholders
• Oversee commercial contracts (MRAs, BCAs, PSAs, RPAs), including negotiation, performance and compliance
• Drive operational performance through data analysis, forecasting and reporting
• Monitor material flows to ensure efficient recovery and maximise value outcomes
• Identify risks, resolve disputes, and ensure regulatory and safety compliance
• Lead, coach and develop a high-performing team and external partners
• Support onboarding and development of new suppliers to strengthen network capability
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across systems, processes and operations
• Ensure accurate reporting and verification of material end-use to support circular economy objectives

About You

You are an experienced operations leader with strong commercial acumen and a passion for sustainability and environmental outcomes.

Key requirements include:

• 10+ years’ experience in operational management roles
• Experience in the waste, recycling, or environmental sector
• Proven experience managing commercial contracts and supplier performance
• Strong analytical capability, including advanced Excel skills
• Demonstrated ability to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills
• Strong leadership capability, with experience developing high-performing teams
• Ability to operate effectively in a complex, fast-paced environment
• Flexibility to travel intrastate and interstate
• A current driver’s licence and an ability to obtain and maintain a satisfactory criminal history check
• Tertiary qualifications in business, engineering, environmental science, supply chain, or a related field will be highly regarded

You will also demonstrate strong alignment to COEX’s values:
Be proactive – Value others – Work together – Contribute positively – Be transparent

Apply Now

If you’re looking to take on a leadership role within a purpose-driven organisation making a tangible environmental impact, we encourage you to apply.

COEX has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and recognised by Diversity Council Australia as an Inclusive Employer, reinforcing their commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

They are dedicated to fostering a welcoming workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive and encourage applications from diverse communities, including people with disability and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are encouraged to apply.
To apply please click apply or call Elena Brady on 07 3032 2287 for a confidential discussion.