- Regular gym training (4 times per week)
- Lifelong Wollongong resident with strong community ties
John Chichkan
Wollongong
Summary
Strategic and results-driven Operations Manager with over 15 years of experience in construction, safety, compliance, and human resource management. Expertise in procurement, fleet management, and regulatory compliance, with a track record of implementing systems that optimize efficiency and profitability. Adept at managing fleets of up to 40 vehicles and leading HR initiatives across recruitment, training, and performance evaluation. Holds a Master’s in Strategic Management & Marketing and has lectured in International Business and Organizational Behaviour.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Operations Manager
Insight Group Development
09.2024 - Current
- Oversee machinery and equipment acquisition to ensure operational efficiency
- Manage HR functions, including recruitment, onboarding, contract design, training, and performance reviews
- Develop and enforce safety management plans, conducting regular inspections for compliance with SafeWork NSW
- Oversee financial management, tracking costs and forecasting future expenditures
- Implement process improvements across HR, finance, and operations to drive business growth
Allocations & Operations Manager
Azzurri Concrete
03.2018 - 09.2024
- Scheduled 120+ employees across 15 worksites, coordinating an additional 40+ labor hire workers daily
- Oversaw fleet management, ensuring maintenance, compliance, and efficiency
- Continued HR leadership, with a focus on recruitment, training, and performance management
Safety & Compliance Manager
Azzurri Concrete
09.2014 - 02.2018
- Developed and enforced safety management plans and safe work method statements (SWMS)
- Managed a fleet of 40+ vehicles, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency
- Implemented Verizon Connect vehicle monitoring system to enhance compliance tracking
- Conducted site and vehicle inspections, ensuring adherence to safety regulations
- Led HR functions, including recruitment, industrial relations, and workforce alignment
PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor
United Divers North Wollongong
10.2008 - 01.2015
- Trained and certified new scuba divers, delivering classroom, pool, and open water instruction
Associate Lecturer
University of Wollongong (Sydney Business School)
07.2011 - 11.2014
- Lectured in International Business and Organizational Behaviour
- Designed course content, assignments, and examinations
Operations Manager
Frog Solutions / JDC Electrical
05.2013 - 02.2014
- Managed product development across multiple brands
- Supervised HR, warehouse operations, distribution, and safety compliance
- Led online marketing initiatives to drive brand awareness
General Manager
XL Events
11.2009 - 02.2013
- Directed team-building programs across Australia, overseeing sales, marketing, procurement, and logistics
- Managed staff recruitment and training for nationwide programs
Education
Master of Strategic Management & Marketing -
University of Wollongong
Wollongong, NSW01.2010
Bachelor of Commerce -
University of Wollongong
Wollongong01.2004
Skills
- Process optimization
- System implementation
- Inspections
- SWMS development
- Vehicle procurement
- Maintenance
- Compliance tracking
- Recruitment and Training
- Performance evaluation
- Industrial relations
- Budgeting
- Expenditure management
- Timekeeping
- Proficient in project management tools
- Operations management
Certification
- Certificate IV in Workplace Health & Safety, 01/01/14
- Team Management Systems (TMS) Psychometric Facilitator Certification, 01/01/11
- Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, TAFE NSW, 12/01/24
- Generative AI and its Business Applications, TAFE NSW, 12/01/24
Accomplishments
- Maintained a Distinction Average in Master’s degree.
- Transitioned to lecturing at the graduate level post-graduation.
- Successfully implemented fleet tracking and compliance systems to improve efficiency.
Community Service
Church Secretary, Orthodox Church in Corrimal.
Hobbies and Interests
- Regular gym training (4+ times per week).
- Lifelong Wollongong resident with strong community ties.
Community Involvement
Church Secretary, Orthodox Church in Corrimal.
Interests
Timeline
Operations Manager
Insight Group Development
09.2024 - Current
Allocations & Operations Manager
Azzurri Concrete
03.2018 - 09.2024
Safety & Compliance Manager
Azzurri Concrete
09.2014 - 02.2018
Operations Manager
Frog Solutions / JDC Electrical
05.2013 - 02.2014
Associate Lecturer
University of Wollongong (Sydney Business School)
07.2011 - 11.2014
General Manager
XL Events
11.2009 - 02.2013
PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor
United Divers North Wollongong
10.2008 - 01.2015
Master of Strategic Management & Marketing -
University of Wollongong
Bachelor of Commerce -
University of Wollongong
Similar Profiles
AMY FEHRAMY FEHR
Co-Founder and Managing Principal at Development InsightCo-Founder and Managing Principal at Development Insight
Daniel RalstonDaniel Ralston
Life Skills Specialist at Insight Partnership GroupLife Skills Specialist at Insight Partnership Group
Maria CarmignaniMaria Carmignani
Advisor Support Specialist at Insight Financial Group, IncAdvisor Support Specialist at Insight Financial Group, Inc