Chief Operating Officer

Role overview

Eniquest operates from a dedicated Sunshine Coast manufacturing site where it develops and builds high-end diesel generator systems. All products are Australian made to demanding standards by a workforce of about 29 people and are supplied to defence and commercial customers who expect dependable performance. The company is also Australia’s only commercial producer of DC alternators and currently manages its largest-ever contract with the Australian Defence Force, which is halfway through delivery.

Position summary

Reporting directly to the Founder, the Chief Operating Officer will oversee day-to-day operations while also driving commercial expansion across the business. This is a senior, practical leadership role with accountability for profit and loss, and it includes direct management of six team members across engineering, production, finance, administration, commercial support, and project delivery.

Key focus areas

The role is expected to strengthen the sales pipeline, build strategic partnerships, open international defence opportunities, and lift both operational and team performance through clear KPIs and continuous improvement. It requires a strong presence, a sense of urgency, and an operating style that matches a founder-led business.

Candidate profile

The ideal applicant brings at least 10 years of senior operational and/or commercial leadership experience, preferably in manufacturing, engineering, or a similar environment. You should be comfortable building pipelines, teams, and systems in lean, hands-on settings where outcomes matter. Experience selling premium products, managing a P&L, and leading skilled professionals is important. A degree in business, management, engineering, or equivalent practical experience is preferred. Background in the defence sector is an advantage, though not mandatory.

Application and contact

Interested candidates are asked to submit a CV and cover letter. For a confidential conversation, contact Ryan Webster on 0483 956 319 or [email protected], or Nicola Wortley on 0483 947 841 or [email protected].

Equal opportunity

The organisation states that it respects the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which it works and lives, and it is committed to equal opportunity, diversity, inclusion, belonging, flexibility, and accessibility. Support and reasonable adjustments can be arranged for candidates who need assistance during the recruitment process.