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.
Our corporate team is a central hub for Thales Australia. It’s where our shared services – think finance, legal, HR, procurement – come together to make sure our teams across Australia have access to the business services they need. Cross-functional collaboration helps us build out Thales’ capabilities in a robust way – and helps us open up new career opportunities for employees all across the business.
As a key member of the multi-disciplinary Regional Procurement Centre, the Procurement Category Manager will be responsible for managing the procurement of Ammunitions, Missiles, and components for Thales AM, as well as across other business domains, ranging from GWEO and underwater programs to air traffic management solutions.
In this role, the Procurement Category Manager will ensure that the execution of the sourcing strategy aligns with both business and corporate objectives, while meeting established timeframes and deliverables.
Working from either Melbourne, Benalla or Mulwala, your role purpose will be –
Engage with suppliers to review quotes, assess timeframes and risks, and optimize purchases through consolidation
Source, assess, and qualify potential suppliers (both local and international)
Consolidate and optimize product demand across the business nationally
Collaborate with stakeholders to develop sourcing strategies that align with project needs, customer requirements, and Thales group objectives
Lead tendering processes, acting as the main point of contact for cross-functional teams to manage risks, seize opportunities, and achieve key objectives like cost savings
Oversee the upstream procurement process and hand over to supply chain for ongoing supplier management
Collect and analyse supplier performance data to guide sourcing strategy adjustments
On day one in this role, we'll expect you to bring the following skills, experience and behaviours:
Solid experience in Procurement or Strategic Sourcing, preferably within Defence, FMCG, Oil & Gas, Chemical Manufacturing, or similar sectors
Strong customer focus and external relationship management skills
Proven leadership abilities with excellent interpersonal and communication skills, capable of leading multi-disciplinary teams
Expertise in Procurement, Contract Management, or Commercial roles
Background in complex project environments and large organizations, with experience interacting across all levels of management
Skilled in negotiating and managing contract spend
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and influence decisions
Tertiary qualification in business, engineering, project management, or a related field
Must be eligible to obtain Australian Defence clearance
Willingness to travel
As part of our commitment, we offer:
Competitive remuneration + Super + Bonus + Medical Insurance
ThalesFlex – Hybrid work environment
Recognised leader in reservist employee support
Veterans Leave
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
Novated Lease options
Family support through our partnership with Parents at Work
Personal & professional training development opportunities
Sonder – Wellbeing & Support Partner
Access to a network of the best people (A Nobel Prize winner on our staff list!)
And much more!
Good to Know
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.