Chief Operations Officer

About Forestry Corporation of NSW Forestry Corporation of NSW (FCNSW) is the largest manager of commercial plantation and native forests in NSW. We manage more than two million hectares of forests for the environmental, economic, and social benefit of the people of NSW and Australia. We are committed to creating a diverse environment and are focused on empowering our people to use their creativity, authenticity and innovative thinking to be the champions of change now and into the future. That is why no matter who you are, we encourage you to apply for the job that’s right for you. We aim to have a workforce that reflects the diverse communities in which we work and so we strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply. About Forestry Corporation of NSW Forestry Corporation of NSW is a state-owned corporation responsible for managing more than two million hectares of state forests, including hardwood and softwood plantations. We balance sustainable timber production, which helps build around 40,000 homes a year, with conservation, cultural heritage, and community access. Our forests welcome millions of visitors each year for camping, mountain biking, bushwalking, and other recreational activities, and we maintain popular visitor precincts and facilities across the state. We work closely with Traditional Owners to protect cultural heritage and deliver projects that celebrate and preserve these values, while supporting regional economies through renewable timber production and responsible forest management. The Opportunity Lead Australia’s largest softwoods grower in a pivotal role driving the success of our Softwoods Plantations Division. This position is integral to achieving sustainable objectives and outstanding commercial performance on a large scale. About the Role The General Manager Softwoods Plantations Division sets the strategic direction and operational excellence across a c.$300 million business unit, which produces around 3 million tonnes of logs per annum, managing 250 employees. The scope of responsibilities includes seedling production, silviculture, roading, and harvesting, with the majority of these operations coordinated through established partnerships with external contracting companies. Ensuring effective customer sales and maintaining strong client relationships are also critical aspects of this role. The role centres on developing a strong health and safety culture, building leadership skills, and supporting talent growth for an engaged, high-performing, and diverse workforce. It significantly influences organisational culture by promoting collaboration, inclusion, and performance. While this position is primarily located in West Pennant Hills, Sydney, candidates residing in regional NSW are also eligible for consideration. The role entails substantial travel to regional softwood hubs. Key Responsibilities The General Manager will lead by example to promote a strong health and safety culture, ensuring policy adherence, and providing strategic leadership for a safe work environment. Strategically, the General Manager develops and implements the division's business plan, addressing forestry practices, environmental regulations, and market demands. They identify growth opportunities, oversee efficient forestry operations, and drive improvements in efficiency, safety, quality, and productivity. Their responsibilities also include ensuring environmental compliance, managing financial performance and risks, fostering a culture of safety and inclusion, developing a risk management framework, engaging with stakeholders, representing the organisation publicly, and maintaining community and government relationships. The Successful Candidate You bring substantial senior leadership experience in managing large-scale operations, ideally within forestry or closely related sectors. Your career demonstrates strong commercial insight and operational expertise, consistently delivering sustained business growth and high performance. As a strategic thinker who excels at turning vision into action, you are adept at inspiring and empowering teams, cultivating high levels of engagement and collaboration. Your skill set includes exceptional commercial acumen, stakeholder management, and the ability to foster robust partnerships. Additionally, you are deeply committed to sustainability, innovation, and upholding compliance standards, ensuring the organisation thrives both commercially and responsibly. Why Join Us? Forestry Corporation of NSW offers a unique opportunity to lead a business that matters to the environment, the economy, and the communities we serve. You will enjoy a competitive executive package, flexible work arrangements, and the chance to make a lasting impact. Closing Date Applications close on : Sunday 21 December 2025 For a confidential discussion, please contact Kerry Hallam, Recruitment and Organisational Development Partner on or Depending on the role the preferred candidate will be required to satisfactorily complete a Drug and Alcohol screening, and / or Medical Assessment and / or a Fire Task Based Assessment (TBA). For roles requiring, the successful candidate(s) must be fit to perform firefighting activities, which may include working in smoky conditions and the ability to be physically active in uneven or steep terrain. Offers of employment for these roles are subject to the results of the pre-employment Medical Assessment which may preclude candidates with high risk conditions from being able to meet the inherent requirements of the role. #J-18808-Ljbffr