Assistant Director

Chandler Macleod Group; Canberra; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Chandler Macleod is recruiting on behalf of a federal government agency for an experienced Assistant Director (EL1) to lead critical submarine program projects in Canberra. You will shape policy development, program delivery, and stakeholder engagement to support Australia's national security and industrial capability.

Reporting to senior leaders, you will prepare executive-level reports, manage risk, ensure compliance with security requirements, and foster collaboration across government and

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading strategic projects or programs within government, defence, or related sectors.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to negotiate, influence, and establish collaborative relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing reports and executive documentation.
• A proactive mindset with the ability to analyse complex issues and uplift program practices.
• Experience working within highly regulated environments (highly regarded).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Negative Vetting 1 (NV1) security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate complex projects aligned with Australia's submarine program, ensuring policy, security, and delivery objectives are met.
• Develop and deliver high-quality strategic advice, reports, and project documentation for senior executives.
• Engage with diverse stakeholders across government, industry, and international partners to foster collaboration and drive program outcomes.
• Identify risks, gaps, and opportunities within project initiatives, and implement effective solutions.
• Provide oversight to ensure activities are controlled, traceable, and compliant with security and regulatory requirements.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and adapt strategies to evolving priorities.
• Ensure all project activities align with security standards and government policies.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic leadership

Policy development

Executive communication

Attention to detail

Job description

Chandler Macleod is recruiting on behalf of our client for an exceptional opportunity within a high-profile Federal Government agency supporting Australia's most significant long-term capability program.

This is a unique chance for an experienced Assistant Director (EL1) to contribute to a transformative national security initiative that will shape Australia's defence capabilities and industrial resilience for decades to come.

About the Role

Reporting to senior leadership within a key defence agency, the Assistant Director (EL1) will exercise a high degree of independence to lead critical projects related to Australia's nuclear-powered submarine program. You will play a pivotal role in shaping policy development, program delivery, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning to ensure the success of this historic enterprise. Your efforts will directly influence Australia's industrial base, workforce development, and long-term national security.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate complex projects aligned with Australia's submarine program, ensuring policy, security, and delivery objectives are met
• Develop and deliver high-quality strategic advice, reports, and project documentation for senior executives
• Engage with diverse stakeholders across government, industry, and international partners to foster collaboration and drive program outcomes
• Identify risks, gaps, and opportunities within project initiatives, and implement effective solutions
• Provide oversight to ensure activities are controlled, traceable, and compliant with security and regulatory requirements
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and adapt strategies to evolving priorities
• Ensure all project activities align with security standards and government policies

About You

• Proven experience leading strategic projects or programs within government, defence, or related sectors
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to negotiate, influence, and establish collaborative relationships
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing reports and executive documentation
• A proactive mindset with the ability to analyse complex issues and uplift program practices
• Experience working within highly regulated environments (highly regarded)
• Strong professional judgment, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to work under tight deadlines
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Negative Vetting 1 (NV1) security clearance

Security Clearance

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at "Negative Vetting Level 1".

Who we are

At Chandler Macleod, we are committed to fostering a diverse workforce where everyone is welcome. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, neurodiverse individuals, people living with a disability, and the LGBTIQA+ community. You can read more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion at https://www.chandlermacleod.com/diversity-and-inclusion.