Head of Procurement

At Thales, we know technology has the ability to make our world more secure, sustainable, and inclusive – and that it’s all driven by human intelligence.

Because it takes human intelligence to build and power the systems and solutions that people depend on every day. So we stay curious and make space for diverse points of view. We share what we know and we challenge what’s possible.

From manufacturing and engineering to cybersecurity and space, we’re driving progress in some of the world’s most important industries – and working together to build a future we can all trust.

Lead procurement strategy and performance for the Land & Australian Munitions business, overseeing a team of Procurement Project Managers responsible for major bids, programs, and products.

You will drive commercial outcomes, supplier innovation, and procurement excellence, ensuring the delivery of best-value solutions that support customer requirements, business growth, and strategic objectives.

As a key leader of the Land & Australian Munitions business, you will build high-performing supplier partnerships and procurement capability across a complex and significant portfolio.

Working from our Melbourne Office in the World Trade Centre on Wurundjeri land, your role purpose will be –

• Lead and develop a high-performing team of Procurement Project Managers, delivering procurement excellence across bids, programs, and products.

• Drive procurement strategy, competitiveness, and sourcing decisions to achieve business, commercial, and customer outcomes.

• Oversee procurement performance, proactively managing risks, opportunities, supplier performance, and value creation across the portfolio.

• Ensure compliance with contractual, regulatory, and company procurement policies while embedding best practices and governance standards.

• Build strong partnerships across the business, suppliers, and stakeholders to deliver innovative, customer-focused procurement solutions and successful program outcomes.

On day one in this role, we'll expect you to bring the following skills, experience and behaviours:

• Extensive experience leading procurement, strategic sourcing, and supply chain activities within complex, industrial-driven or project-based environments.

• Proven people leadership capability, with a track record of building and developing high-performing teams.

• Expertise in procurement strategy, supplier performance, risk management, and value creation, with a focus on innovation and continuous improvement.

• Strong commercial and negotiation skills, including management of major supplier agreements and high-value contracts.

• Qualifications in Procurement such as MCIPS or FCIPS, Engineering, Supply Chain, Business, Logistics, or a related discipline ideally underpinned by Project Management qualification or equivalent experience.

As part of our Commitment, we offer:

• Competitive remuneration + Super + Bonus + Free Medical Insurance

• Annualised Performance Review Process

• ThalesFlex – Hybrid work environment

• Fitness Passport Discount – Access to a network of Gyms across AUS

• Employee discounts with a number of affiliates (Travel, Car hire, Tech, Medical Insurance)

• Modernised Paid Parental Leave

• Veterans Leave

• Novated Lease options

• Family support through our partnership with Parents at Work

• Personal & professional training development opportunities

• Sonder – Wellbeing & Support Partner

Good to Know

The U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR) are applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role.

A NV1 Defence security clearance is required for this role; applicants must be Australian citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain an appropriate clearance.

Additional information with regards to clearances is available from the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency website http://www.defence.gov.au/AGSVA/. In some cases, individuals who hold a current clearance from a foreign government may be eligible to have this clearance recognised by the Australian Government and be eligible for this role.

The Australian Defence Trade Controls Act (DTCA) is applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role.

Prior to being offered employment, you will need to complete pre-employment police and (role dependent) medical checks.

It’s easy to dismiss the perfect opportunity if you don’t see yourself as the perfect fit. If this role feels right – no matter your background or personal circumstances – please introduce yourself or join our community. We’re committed to supporting a diverse workplace, and that starts here.

We’re proud to be endorsed by WORK180 as an Employer for All Women, but we know there’s always more we can do. We’ll continue to foster industry partnerships, employee resource groups (ERGs) and development opportunities to make Thales a genuinely equitable employer, for everyone.

Read more about our WORK180 endorsement.