Centre Manager

A unique opportunity has arisen for experienced Corrections or Custodial Contract Manager delivering services to Victoria Police at the Melbourne Custody Centre.

Wilson Security is a leading Australian provider of integrated security services. We offer high quality solutions to suit any organisation. Our successful operations are underpinned by superior performance and the strength of our relationships.

The Role

Work type: Full time Permanent Position

Location: Melbourne Custody Centre - Melbourne CBD.

About the Role

We are seeking professional, experienced and highly capable Contract Manager to lead the effective operation of the Melbourne Custody Centre. This is a senior leadership role responsible for ensuring the safety, security, wellbeing, and rehabilitation of individuals in custody, while maintaining high standards of governance, compliance, client interaction and staff management. The Contract Manager will lead a team of over 100 personnel responsible for the safe, secure, and efficient delivery of custodial services in accordance with contractual obligations, legislative requirements, Key performance Indicators and organisational standards.

This role requires a strong balance of security oversight, operational excellence, people leadership, and client engagement to ensure high-quality service delivery and continuous improvement in a Custodial Setting.

Key Responsibilities

Whilst providing strategic and operational leadership for the custodial centre a range of services and responsibilities are inherent to the role, these include;

• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, policies, and regulatory standards
• Maintain a safe, secure, and humane custodial environment
• Lead, manage, and develop multidisciplinary teams
• Oversee budgeting, resource allocation, and operational performance
• Manage risk, incidents, and emergency responses effectively
• Engage with external stakeholders, including Victorian Police, Court Services Victoria, Youth Justice, Corrections Victoria, justice support agencies and community partners
• Provide strategic and operational leadership of the custodial centre and wider Custodial & Court Escort Services contract
• Ensure full compliance with contractual, legislative, and regulatory requirements
• Oversee performance against key performance indicators (KPIs) and service level agreements (SLAs)
• Oversee the management of Operations Managers, Shift Managers, Supervisors, Custodial & Court Escort Officer resources, and operational efficiency
• Lead incident management, investigations, and emergency response planning
• Build and maintain effective relationships with government clients, regulators, and stakeholders
• Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and best practice in custodial service delivery

As the leader of the team you will be required to champion Wilson Values, uphold organisational standards, duty-of-care obligations, and follow relevant legislation at all times.

About You

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, ability to remain calm under pressure and manage challenging situations with professionalism.  A High level of integrity, maturity, and sound judgment is required, and all staff will be required to meet the security and vetting standards of the Victorian Police Contractor Vetting Unit Criminal History & Security Clearance process.. Applicants will require the ability to work collaboratively in a disciplined, supportive team-based environment. Any relevant tertiary qualification (e.g. criminal justice, business management, or related field) coupled with experience in security, law enforcement, corrections, defence, or emergency services is desirable. The person we seek is results driven, has exceptional communication skills with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders is desired along with experience working with government contracts or public–private partnerships.

Essential Requirements

Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance and relevant background checks.  Demonstrated senior leadership experience in private custodial, corrections, justice, or secure services environments with a strong understanding of custodial operations, security management, and risk mitigation.

Other requirements include;

• Proven experience managing contracts, KPIs, and compliance frameworks
• High-level people leadership, workforce planning, and industrial relations capability
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to operate effectively in a highly regulated, high-risk environment

What We Offer

Competitive salary and benefits and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in maintaining safer communities. Professional development, leadership support and growth opportunities within our national business.

To apply for this role please click on the 'apply' link and complete the online application. You can review your application status and keep up to date with our current vacancies by visiting our Work at Wilson Careers Website:

To register for this unique opportunity please submit your resume to the below email, applications close 29th January 2026.

Vic Licence 85518521S