Operations Support Specialist

Natures Cargo, an award-winning, family-owned and operated wholesale foodservice distribution company, has been a leader in the foodservice industry for over 40 years. Established in 1986, the business has grown from its humble beginnings to become one of Victoria’s leading foodservice distributors. With three distribution centres in Ballarat, Thomastown, and Traralgon, we proudly serve foodservice outlets across Metro and Regional Victoria.

Our extensive product range includes over 7,500 frozen, refrigerated, and dry goods sourced from more than 500 trusted suppliers. We provide a wide variety of food, beverages, and other essential products to restaurants, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, hotels, pubs, clubs, cafes, and all other food establishments.

Natures Cargo is seeking an experienced, highly organised and detail-oriented Operations Support Specialist to join our team in Ballarat. We are looking for someone who enjoys building relationships, brings positive energy to every interaction, and genuinely cares about providing great support to the people they work with. You will be a trusted point of contact for our employees, someone who is approachable, engaging and committed to finding practical solutions that make a difference.

This role plays a key part in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the business by providing administrative, customer service, and operational support across a range of functions. Working closely with internal teams and customers, you will help coordinate processes, maintain accurate records, resolve enquiries, and contribute to efficient business operations.

Key Responsibilities

· Investigate and rectify inventory discrepancies, such as items held up in shipping bins or on hold.

· Address and minimise out-of-stock situations for customer orders.

· Provide reporting support and assist with data-intensive tasks, including managing rebates and tenders.

· Maintain the accuracy of data within the ERP system and manage archival processes for outdated records such as sales orders and pricing documents.

· Proactively monitor customer orders, shipments, and invoices to identify and address potential issues before they impact operations.

· Analyse reports and data to identify recurring issues, implement corrective measures, and seek opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies.

· Support day-to-day operations by coordinating with various departments, maintaining inventory records and ensuring supplies are stocked.

· Troubleshooting issues that arise in operations, such as technical problems or logistical challenges, and finding effective solutions.

· Acting as a point of contact for internal and external inquiries, providing information, and facilitating communication between different departments or teams.

· Identify areas for improvement in operational processes and assist with implementing new procedures to enhance efficiency.

· Ensuring that operations comply with relevant regulations and company policies, including maintaining records and documentation as required.

· Supporting teams with job-related administration, scheduling updates, documentation and system requirements.

· Liaising with internal stakeholders to help resolve operational issues.

· Assist with reporting, data entry and general administration as required.

· Supporting continuous improvement in operational processes and customer service delivery.

To be successful in this position, you will possess the following skills & experience

Essential

· Previous experience in an operations support role.

· Strong customer service skills and the ability to communicate professionally with customers, suppliers and internal teams.

· High attention to detail and accuracy when processing information.

· Strong organisational and time management skills.

· Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage competing priorities.

· Confidence using business systems and Microsoft Office, with Pronto experience highly regarded.

· A proactive, team-focused approach and willingness to support others.

· Sound understanding of AI tools and their practical use in an administrative or operational support environment.

Desirable

· Experience within foodservice, wholesale distribution, or food manufacturing.

· Minimum of 5 years' experience in Operations, Administrative Support, or related roles.

· Experience using Pronto ERP would be highly regarded.

Personal Attributes

· Professional approach

· Ability to work under pressure.

· Organisational and time management skills

· Excellent attention to detail

· Brings energy, enthusiasm and a people focused approach, with the confidence to support both simple enquiries and more complex operational or system-related issues.

Why Join Us?

· Staff discounts on over 6,000 product lines

· Be part of a well-established and respected brand in the food service industry

· Free on-site parking at all 3 sites

· Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

How to Apply:

If you are organised, detail-focused and enjoy supporting smooth day-to-day operations, we would welcome your application. To apply, submit an up-to-date resume and cover letter outlining your interest in joining the Natures Cargo team.

This position is available for an immediate start; therefore, interviews may commence before the application closing date.

Please note that this role may be subject to satisfactory reference and police checks, as a condition of employment.

Please note only applicants with valid working rights will be considered. We respectfully decline all applications through agencies.