Commercial Manager - Defence Programs

Kinexus; Canberra; On-site; AUD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in the Defence sector is seeking a Commercial Manager to oversee commercial activities within significant Defence programs. You will manage contract negotiations, implement strategies, and ensure compliance in a pivotal role shaping Australia's Defence capability. This opportunity offers a competitive package and potential for career growth.

Benefits

Competitive package

Long-term career growth

Opportunity to work in a high-impact Defence program

Qualifications

• Proven experience in commercial management and contract negotiations within Defence.
• Strong track record managing large-scale Defence contracts.
• Ability to mentor and build team capability.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all contractual and commercial matters across major Defence projects.
• Drive complex commercial negotiations with stakeholders.
• Develop and implement commercial strategies.

Skills

Contract law understanding

Stakeholder engagement

Mentoring and leadership

Negotiation skills

Education

Degree in Engineering, Finance, Law, or Commerce

Job description

We are representing a leading organisation in Australia's Defence sector that provides world-class expertise across naval programs and complex maritime projects. This is a rare opportunity to step into a Commercial Manager role, supporting one of Australia's most significant Defence programs.

As Commercial Manager, you will take ownership of commercial activities across the full project lifecycle, providing strategic advice, leading complex negotiations, and ensuring compliance within a Defence contracting environment. Acting as the bridge between customers, project managers, and delivery teams, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the commercial success of high-profile Defence initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, advise, and manage all contractual and commercial matters across major Defence projects.
• Drive complex commercial and contractual negotiations with senior stakeholders.
• Develop and implement commercial strategies aligned with project and customer objectives.
• Manage contract changes, deviations, and amendments within Commonwealth frameworks.
• Ensure audit readiness and compliance with Defence procurement requirements.
• Provide mentoring and leadership to project teams, building internal commercial capability.
• Foster strong relationships with senior executives, customers, and key stakeholders.

What We're Looking For

• Degree in Engineering, Finance, Law, or Commerce with solid knowledge of contract law.
• Proven experience in commercial management and contract negotiations, within Defence.
• Strong track record managing large-scale Defence contracts and driving outcomes.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills.
• Familiarity with capture and bid methodologies.
• Ability to mentor and build team capability.
• Must hold, or be eligible to obtain, an NV1 Security Clearance.

Why Apply?

• Be part of a high-impact Defence program with national significance.
• Join a forward-thinking organisation that values innovation and collaboration.
• Competitive package and long-term career growth in a secure industry.

This is a career-defining opportunity to apply your expertise and play a key role in shaping Australia\'s Defence capability.

All applications should include your resume as a word document.

For more information, visit our website, www.kinexus.com.au or contact Adrian Perini on 02 9492 7526.

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