About my client
My client is Australia’s largest raw sugar producer and one of the country’s most significant agribusinesses. With eight mills across North Queensland and operations that span renewable energy, transport and grower engagement, Wilmar is a major regional employer with a strong legacy and a bold future. As part of the international Wilmar Group, they combine global reach with deep local impact.
About the Role
We’re searching for a skilled IR/ER leader to take the reins on enterprise bargaining, union strategy and employee engagement across a large, complex operational workforce.
But this role goes beyond the traditional. You’ll also be a key figure in grower relations, supporting regional partnerships and influencing strategy at both site and executive levels.
This is your chance to:
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Lead upcoming EBA negotiations across a major regional employer
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Influence senior operational and executive stakeholders
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Guide site leaders through complex workplace change
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Help shape a more contemporary and accountable workforce culture
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Build meaningful relationships with growers, unions, and operational leaders alike
You’ll be supported by:
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A Head of People & Culture who will support you, mentor you, and challenge you to step into your full potential
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A high-performing IR team (with scope to build it further)
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Executive leaders ready for smart, commercially minded partnership
What makes this role different?
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It’s not just IR – you’ll engage with external growers and take part in broader commercial strategy.
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You’re not on your own – you’ll work in partnership with a respected P&C leader known for her high trust and people-first leadership style.
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It’s regional, with purpose – enjoy the North Queensland lifestyle while contributing to a legacy business undergoing meaningful transformation.
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Your voice will matter – this role has true visibility and influence.
Who are we looking for?
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A minimum of 5 years deep industrial relations expertise in complex, unionised environments (e.g., manufacturing, energy, agriculture)
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Proven experience in EBA negotiation and stakeholder management
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Strong commercial and strategic acumen — someone who sees ER as a lever for performance
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High integrity, resilience, and emotional intelligence — ready to influence with impact
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Bonus points for experience working with regional communities or in blue-collar environments
What’s in it for you?
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Total Package up to $230K + bonus — Includes base salary, super with the potencial of a discretionary annual bonus (~$20–30K per year)
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Relocation support — Wilmar will assist with up to $6,000.00 towards moving costs for you (and your family, if needed)
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Townsville lifestyle — Tropical climate, affordable housing, and a relaxed, community-focused way of life
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Career-defining leadership scope — A rare opportunity to lead IR strategy across a large, high-profile industrial business
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Mentoring from a high-calibre P&C leader — Step into a senior leadership role with coaching, not micromanagement
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Make your mark — Join a business in transition and help shape the next era of workforce culture and stakeholder engagement
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Work for a stable, values-led employer — Wilmar is backed by an international group but led locally, with strong values and a grounded, practical culture.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to lead and influence at a regional level while making a real impact in IR and stakeholder engagement I’d love to hear from you. For a confidential discussion, contact Catherine Lyttle on catherine.lyttle@davidsonwp.com. quoting reference JN -052025-40371. Want to know more about Davidson? Visit us at www.davidsonwp.com
