Operations Manager Full Time

Are you a proactive, detail-driven leader who thrives in fast-paced environments?
Do you love solving operational challenges and streamlining processes from warehouse to shop floor?

We’re on the hunt for an experienced Operations Manager to take the reins of warehouse and logistics operations and help drive the engine behind one of Australia’s leading surf retail, distribution & manufacturing businesses – 3rd Rail Distribution, the powerhouse behind Surfboard Empire.

About Us – 3rd Rail Distribution & Surfboard Empire

Established in 2013 and headquartered on the southern end of the Gold Coast, 3rd Rail Distribution is a vertically integrated leader in the surf industry. We manufacture, distribute, and retail high-performance surfboards, skateboards, apparel, and accessories across Australia.

• We proudly manufacture over 12,000 surfboards annually for legendary surf brands including …Lost, Pyzel, MR, Rusty and more.
• We are the exclusive Australian distributor of premium brands including Florence, VEIA Supplies, and YOW Surfskates.
• Our retail network – Surfboard Empire – has multiple locations across QLD and NSW, offering top-tier surfboards, apparel and accessories from our own brands plus global icons like Channel Islands, Firewire, JS, DHD and more.
• We’re award-winning too: SBIA Australian Independent Retailer of the Year in multiple categories across 2021–2024.

This is a rare opportunity to join a high-performance operation with deep roots in the surf community and a passion for delivering best-in-class products and service.

About the Role:

Based at our Greenway Drive HQ, you’ll work closely with the General Manager to lead inbound and outbound logistics, product flow, stock integrity, RTVs, direct-to-store processes, and more. You’ll lead a team across warehousing, dispatch, and delivery – and you’ll be central to making sure our customers and stores are stocked and stoked.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Overseeing daily warehouse operations across inbound, outbound, and online dispatch
• Own end to end stock and inventory management, ensuring accuracy, consistency and control.
• Managing stock flow, accuracy, and product data entry
• Implementing and optimising the new POS across all channels
• Leading RTV (Return to Vendor) and Direct-to-Store processes
• Coordinating store-to-store transfers and purchase order reconciliation
• Ensuring invoice accuracy, pricing validation, and timely vendor payments
• Working closely with stores, suppliers, and internal teams to resolve any issues quickly and efficiently

Who We’re Looking For:

• A proven operations or logistics manager with strong leadership skills
• Systems-focused and solutions first – experience with Shopify and Stocky highly regarded
• High attention to detail and a love of smooth, accurate processes
• Confident leading and motivating teams in a busy, evolving environment
• Retail, wholesale, or e-commerce background? Even better.

Why Join Us?

• Work with a passionate team and some of the most respected brands in surf
• Help lead operational change in a high-growth, award-winning business
• Be part of a company that values performance, innovation, and community

If you love structure, flow, and taking ownership, this is your chance to step into a high-impact role at a critical time in our journey.

Apply Now

Ready to dive in? Hit “Apply” and tell us why you’re the right fit to lead operations at 3rd Rail Distribution.

Tagged as: australia, gold coast, manager, operations, surfboard empire