About the Opportunity
Based in Henderson, WA, the Contract & Supply Chain Manager – Program Delivery is responsible for leading the strategic and operational delivery of contract management and supply chain functions across major defence shipbuilding programs.
This role will oversee end‑to‑end commercial, contractual, and procurement activities, ensuring alignment between head contract obligations and supplier frameworks while driving performance, compliance, and risk mitigation across a complex and high‑value program environment.
About Austal
Austal is Australia’s global shipbuilder, Defence prime contractor; and maritime technology partner of choice. We design, construct, and support defence and commercial vessels for the world’s leading operators with operations spanning Australia, the USA, Philippines, and Vietnam.
Under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, Austal is leading a new era of continuous naval shipbuilding in Western Australia. We’re driving innovation, supporting sovereign capability, and creating long-term opportunities for Australian industry and workers.
Learn more at austal.com/ssa
This is your opportunity to contribute to projects of national significance. The maritime is now.
What’s Involved
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Lead contract and supply chain teams across complex shipbuilding programs
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Oversee supplier and subcontractor management, ensuring performance and compliance
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Maintain commercial governance of head contracts, including risk and obligations management
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Ensure alignment of contract requirements across all supplier agreements
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Drive supplier performance through KPI monitoring and corrective actions
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Lead contract variations, claims, and dispute resolution processes
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Partner with program teams to ensure integrated delivery outcomes
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Establish and maintain governance frameworks aligned with defence and regulatory standards
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Identify and mitigate commercial, contractual, and supply chain risks
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Drive continuous improvement across contract management and supply chain functions
You’ll Need
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15+ years’ experience in senior contract or commercial leadership roles
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Demonstrated experience managing high‑value, high‑risk contracts in defence, shipbuilding, or heavy industry
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Tertiary qualification in Law, Commerce, Business, Supply Chain or related discipline
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Strong commercial acumen and experience managing complex negotiations and supplier relationships
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Proven leadership experience managing cross‑functional teams and stakeholders
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Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle or similar)
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Australian Citizenship (mandatory)
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Eligibility for a Defence Security Clearance
Why Join Us?
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Competitive compensation and benefits package
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Professional development and leadership opportunities
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A supportive and dynamic work environment
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Opportunities for career advancement within our growing organisation
At Austal we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive work environment for all. We believe that achieving greater diversity will enhance our operations and as such we actively encourage Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, sexual orientation, and those with Disability to apply. Veterans are also encouraged to apply.
