Executive Director Procurement and Contracting

The Role
Maritime Sustainment Division is seeking an exceptional commercial leader to lead the newly formed Procurement and Contract Management Directorate. Leading a team of around 40 procurement and contract management professionals, while providing functional leadership to a broader commercial community, this role oversees a multi-billion dollar portfolio delivering maritime maintenance, asset management, engineering and professional services that directly underpin Australia’s Defence capability.
This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of maritime sustainment through strategic commercial leadership. You will set the strategic direction for procurement and contract management activities across a complex national enterprise. You will champion innovation, strengthen industry partnerships, and drive commercial outcomes that deliver lasting capability benefits. We are looking for a visionary leader with exceptional commercial acumen, proven experience leading large and complex teams, and the ability to navigate government procurement frameworks to achieve ambitious outcomes in a highly accountable environment.
This position is classified as having a work value commensurate with EL2.1 and the salary range of $173,360 - $206,309. Positions with a work value at EL2.1 are reviewed annually and salary may increase or decrease in accordance with the provisions of the Defence Enterprise Agreement. Applicants should familiarise themselves with the relevant provisions of the Defence Enterprise Agreement if considering applying for this position.
Should an annual review determine that work is no longer available at the higher work value, the employee’s classification and salary will be decreased to the lower level work value and salary within the EL 2 classification range.
About our Team
Maritime Sustainment Division (MSD), part of Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Group, delivers the sustainment outcomes that keep Australia’s naval fleet operational, mission-ready and lethal. Working closely with industry, MSD provides engineering, maintenance and asset management services to the Royal Australian Navy, Australian Army and Australian Border Force, supporting some of Australia’s most critical Defence capabilities.
Following significant transformation, MSD is implementing an operating model that delivers an Enduring Sovereign Sustainment Capability. This ensures Australia has the workforce, industrial capacity, commercial frameworks and strategic partnerships required to sustain maritime capability into the future. Through stewardship of major public investment, innovation and collaboration across Defence and industry, MSD strengthens Australia’s sovereign industrial capability and maritime readiness. Defence offers an attractive salary package, flexible and family-friendly working arrangements, and a 15.4% superannuation contribution. Our people are our greatest asset, and we are committed to their professional development and success.
Our Ideal Candidate
Our ideal candidate is an accomplished senior executive with a proven record of leading large-scale procurement, contract management or commercial functions in complex and highly regulated environments. You are a visionary with exceptional commercial acumen, adept at balancing governance requirements with a sharp focus on delivering ambitious outcomes.
You are an inspiring and authentic leader who builds effective teams, develops talent, and fosters a culture of accountability, innovation and delivery. You excel at leading through complexity and change, bringing together diverse stakeholders to achieve shared objectives.
With strong influencing and negotiation skills, you build trusted relationships across government, industry and senior leadership groups. You are comfortable making decisions in complex environments, navigating competing priorities and managing significant commercial risks.
Most importantly, you are motivated by purpose and impact. You understand how effective commercial and procurement strategies enable critical capability outcomes, and you are committed to delivering value for money while supporting the long-term sustainment and readiness of Australia's maritime forces.
Application Closing Date: Sunday 30 August 2026
For further information please review the job information pack, reference NSSG/04587/26 on https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/?jati=72499CDB-B1CE-FA7E-E9A9-ED3496CBD2F7