Commercial & Operations Manager

Buurabalayji Thalanyji Aboriginal Corporation (BTAC) is the Registered Native Title Body Corporate (RNTBC) for the Thalanyji People through Native Title Determination WCD2008/003 and also agent for the Thalanyji/Nhuwala Native Title claimants (WC2024/007).

BTAC is seeking a Commercial & Operations Manager to operate out of its South Perth office. The role will require frequent travel to Onslow and neighbouring region.

About the role

The Commercial & Operations Manager is a critical leadership role responsible for driving the financial sustainability and day-to-day operational excellence of the Corporation. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role oversees commercial asset management, business development, joint venture opportunities, contract management, and internal operational systems. The successful candidate will ensure that commercial activities align with the Corporation's strategic plan while respecting the cultural and social priorities of the Traditional Owners.

Key responsibilities

• In close consultation with the CEO, identify and evaluate new commercial business opportunities, joint ventures, and enterprise models that drive self-determination and revenue generation.
• Oversee existing contracts, Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUAs), and mining or exploration agreements to ensure optimal compliance and commercial returns.
• Manage corporate assets, land holdings, pastoral leases, or property portfolios held by the Corporation to maximize value and benefit for members.
• In close consultation with the CEO, develop robust business cases and financial models to support strategic investment decisions for the Board of Directors.
• Manage day-to-day operations of the corporation, ensuring corporate systems, processes, and structures run efficiently and securely.
• Working closely with the in house legal and financial controller, ensure strict statutory compliance with ORIC regulations, the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (CATSI Act), the Native Title Act 1993, and WA heritage legislation.
• Collaborate with the finance team to manage operational budgets, implement internal controls, and monitor project specific funding acquittals and financial reports.
• Mitigate corporate risk by reviewing and maintaining the risk register, safety management plans, and standard operating procedures.
• Lead, mentor, and build capacity within the operational teams, creating a culturally safe and high-performing workplace environment.
• Assist with implement training and professional development plans, with a deliberate focus on mentoring local Aboriginal employees into leadership pathways.

About you

• Demonstrated experience (minimum 5 years) in a commercial management, operations, or senior business development role, preferably within an Aboriginal Corporation, NFP, or community-focused sector.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen, including experience tracking budgets, negotiating complex commercial contracts, and evaluating business cases.
• Deep understanding of the cultural, social, and economic opportunities and challenges facing Aboriginal people and communities in Western Australia.
• Proven knowledge of relevant legislation, including the CATSI Act, Native Title frameworks, ILUAs, and the WA Aboriginal Heritage legislative landscape.
• Tertiary qualifications in Business, Commerce, Law, Project Management, or a related discipline.
• Direct experience working alongside an ORIC-registered board of directors.
• A valid C-Class Australian Driver's Licence is required.
• A recent, valid, and clear National Police Clearance.
• Sound decision making skills based on accurate and timely analyses.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with a track record of building trusted relationships with senior corporate executives, government officials, and community members.

About us

Manage the native title of Thalanyji People and enable the social, economic and cultural development of BTAC members. Thalanyji People secure a future where our identity remains strong, we are increasingly self-reliant and in charge of our own destiny, and we can all lead secure and comfortable lives.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and access to salary packaging providing tax benefits up to $18,550 per year.
• 4 Weeks Annual Leave with Leave Loading of 17.5%.