Defence Category Strategist - Supply Chain

Austal; Fremantle; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Professional development

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Austal Defence Australia (ADA) seeks a Category Specialist to manage supply chain activities across designated categories, ensuring service requirements are met and value for money is delivered. You will lead commercial discussions, develop category plans, and negotiate fit-for-purpose contracts while supporting procurement compliance.

The role requires deep procurement/SC experience, ERP proficiency, and the ability to influence stakeholders across multiple sites.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in supply chain or procurement, with 10+ years desirable.
• Strong analytical ability to develop supplier strategies and manage data.
• Excellent negotiation, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with ERP procurement modules.

Responsibilities

• Build strong supplier relationships and stay across market conditions impacting your categories.
• Continuously review suppliers and identify new opportunities to strengthen the supply base.
• Work with internal stakeholders to understand business needs and improve procurement practices.
• Act as the key commercial contact, managing supplier engagement and contract discussions.
• Develop Category Management Plans that ensure continuity of supply and deliver value for money.
• Establish fit for purpose commercial contracts based on business needs and supply chain risk.
• Monitor supplier performance and maintain robust supplier registers to support future demand.
• 2-Year Contract | Potential Extension

Skills

Procurement data analysis

Supplier relationship management

Negotiation & influencing

Stakeholder management

Education

Tertiary qualifications in Procurement, Supply Chain, Contract Law

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Austal Defence Australia (ADA) seeks a Category Specialist to manage supply chain activities across designated categories, ensuring service requirements are met and value for money is delivered. You will lead commercial discussions, develop category plans, and negotiate fit-for-purpose contracts while supporting procurement compliance.

The role requires deep procurement/SC experience, ERP proficiency, and the ability to influence stakeholders across multiple sites.