Procurement Specialist (defence)

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Procurement Specialist to join a highly respected organisation at the forefront of Australia’s defence strategy and national security. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a complex, collaborative environment and is passionate about delivering value through strategic sourcing, contract management, and supplier engagement. You will play a pivotal part in supporting major defence programs, ensuring that procurement activities align with business objectives and deliver outstanding results. The organisation is committed to fostering a culture of service, safety, integrity, and innovation, offering you the chance to work alongside knowledgeable professionals who are dedicated to continuous improvement. Flexible working opportunities and a supportive team environment make this an ideal position for those seeking both professional growth and work-life balance.

What you'll do:

As a Procurement Specialist, you will be entrusted with managing end-to-end procurement processes for significant defence-related projects. Your day-to-day responsibilities will involve building trusted relationships with suppliers, negotiating favourable terms, coordinating contract execution, and ensuring that all procurement activities are conducted efficiently and compliantly. You will be instrumental in driving cost-saving initiatives while upholding the highest standards of governance. Success in this role requires you to work collaboratively across teams, mentor less experienced colleagues, participate in continuous improvement efforts, and maintain meticulous attention to detail when it comes to compliance. Your ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments will be essential as you contribute to the achievement of program milestones and organisational objectives.

• Manage and execute procurement activities across key categories of spend to support strategic business objectives and shareholder value.
• Lead engagement with suppliers by developing strong relationships, negotiating contracts, and ensuring delivery of goods and services on time and within budget.
• Coordinate contracting and procurement activities for assigned portfolios, including sourcing strategies, project planning, schedule coordination, and risk mitigation.
• Oversee contract management processes by conducting regular contract review meetings, monitoring key performance indicators, and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations.
• Drive cost savings initiatives by identifying opportunities for efficiency improvements while maintaining value-for-money outcomes.
• Ensure governance and compliance with all relevant supply chain policies, workplace health and safety procedures, equal employment opportunity standards, and diversity policies.
• Participate actively in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing procurement processes and overall supply chain function.
• Mentor junior staff members by providing guidance on best practices in procurement operations within the framework of corporate governance.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders across various programs to ensure alignment of procurement activities with organisational goals.
• Support audit activities by maintaining accurate records and achieving satisfactory ratings through adherence to established protocols.

What you bring:

To excel as a Procurement Specialist in this environment, your background should reflect substantial hands-on experience managing complex procurement portfolios within industries such as defence or manufacturing. Your interpersonal skills will enable you to build rapport with both internal stakeholders and external suppliers while navigating intricate contractual landscapes. A deep understanding of risk management frameworks coupled with strong commercial awareness will allow you to identify opportunities for cost optimisation without compromising quality or compliance. Your approach should be grounded in empathy—valuing teamwork over individual achievement—and your communication style should foster trust among colleagues at all levels. Experience mentoring others or sharing knowledge within your team will further distinguish you as an asset capable of nurturing talent while advancing organisational goals.

• Hold an appropriate tertiary qualification in business or procurement or possess equivalent relevant experience gained within supply chain roles in defence, manufacturing or resource sectors.
• Demonstrate at least five years’ experience managing procurement or supply chain functions in complex environments where customer service excellence is paramount.
• Showcase proven expertise in contract management including negotiation skills, communication abilities, and commercial acumen necessary for mitigating risk.
• Possess significant knowledge of contractual terms and conditions as well as enterprise risk management principles relevant to large-scale projects.
• Display proficiency in financial reporting, budgeting processes, business case development, and use of Microsoft Office products for effective documentation.
• Be eligible for Australian Defence Security Clearance (Negative Vetting Level 1) as well as International Traffic in Arms compliance requirements.
• Exhibit relationship-focused behaviours with a commitment to outcome delivery through collaboration with internal teams and external partners.
• Champion change by participating enthusiastically in continuous improvement initiatives designed to enhance procurement effectiveness.
• Demonstrate excellent organisational skills combined with analytical thinking required for problem-solving within fast-evolving project contexts.

What sets this company apart:

This organisation stands out as an enduring contributor to Australia’s maritime strategy—offering employees the unique chance to work on nationally significant projects that shape the future of naval capability. The company’s values-driven culture emphasises service orientation towards customers, unwavering commitment to safety for all personnel involved, visible leadership that empowers every team member, integrity through open communication and shared decision-making, as well as relentless pursuit of excellence without complacency. Employees benefit from flexible working arrangements designed to promote work-life harmony alongside generous training opportunities that encourage personal growth. The inclusive environment welcomes individuals from under-represented backgrounds while fostering a sense of belonging through communal success celebrations. By joining this team, you become part of a network dedicated not only to technical achievement but also mutual support—a place where your contributions are recognised as vital components of collective progress.

What's next:

If you are ready to take the next step in your career journey by making a meaningful impact on Australia’s defence future, this is your moment—apply now!

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are encouraged to apply.
To apply, please click "Apply" or contact Matheus Leão on 61 8 8216 3532 or mat.leao@robertwalters.com.au for a confidential discussion.