Seed Collection Program Manager

Seed Collection Program Manager

The Gelganyem Group represents the Traditional Owners of the Barramundi dreaming and manages their rights and interests in relation to the Argyle diamond mine.

Established in 2019, the Gelganyem Seed Operation (GSO) is a Gelganyem owned and operated seed collection and storage business based in Kununurra, in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia. The GSO specialises in the management of native seed collection and storage, cleaning, quality control and treatment of a vast array of native species including trees, shrubs, grasses and herbs. Managing a list of over 80 species currently, and with a collection area covering a radius of 200km, the GSO is one of the largest Indigenous owned seed collection businesses in Australia.

Due to expansion, the GSO is seeking a Program Manager to work with the GSO team, supporting operational activities and managing daily seed collection.

ABOUT THE ROLE

This position will be responsible for overseeing the management of the daily seed collection processes. Duties include:

• Assist the Operations Manager with the day-to-day running of the seed operation, including staff management and reporting.
• Work with the Operations Manager and the Technical Team to have continual improvement and innovation in the seed operation.
• Undertake scouting to locate populations of species required for seed collection and coordinate the planning of seed collection activities. 
• Assist with recruiting, management, and supervision of the seed collection and processing team, providing day-to-day management and support to ensure the efficient, safe and effective operation to meet all organisational requirements.
• Seed collection, processing, cleaning, and storage of collected seed, including operating seed cleaning plant and equipment.
• Operate company vehicles, plant, and equipment for the harvesting of seed, in line with the regulations and requirements for native seed collection.
• Transfer of knowledge to Traditional Owners regarding seed identification and collection
• Data collection, inventory management, and timely and accurate reporting of program activities as required by the organisation.
• Maintain accurate and appropriate records of all activities in line with organisational, client, and licensing and regulatory conditions. 
• Managing the seed store including entering seed inventory, maintaining the seed inventory spreadsheets and ensuring ideal seed storage conditions are maintained. 
• Reporting, including monthly HSEC and seed collection quantities as per Company requirements.
• Act as 2IC in the Operations Manager’s absence.
• Travel and work away from home for periods of time to complete seed collection activities. 

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Demonstrated knowledge, experience, or qualification in botany, environmental, horticultural or another related field. 
• Stakeholder engagement and experience working with Traditional Owners and Indigenous groups. 
• Ability to demonstrate cultural sensitivity.
• Ability to manage and motivate teams and individuals. 
• Extensive knowledge and keen interest of the local Kimberley flora
• Good understanding of health, safety, and environment principles.
• Strong problem-solving skills. 
• Strong organisational skills; a methodical and meticulous approach to all tasks. 
• Computer literacy and sound ability working with Microsoft Office suites. 
• Current C class Driver’s Licence. 
• Complete necessary position requirements with drug, alcohol, and medical testing

LOCATION AND REMUNERATION

This full time, permanent position is based in Kununurra and requires extensive travel around the East Kimberley region, including working away from town for periods of time. An attractive remuneration package is on offer for the successful applicant and includes a base salary, vehicle for personal use and five weeks of accrued annual leave per year. Additional salary sacrificing payroll benefits will also be discussed with the successful candidate.

For further information about this position and to request a position description, email: sarah.watts@gelganyem.com.au.

Applications close 17 November 2024.