Head of Product & Programs

ExecThread; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

ExecThread is seeking a Head of Product and Programs in Australia to lead a portfolio of advanced mechatronic and automated defence products from concept to commercialisation. The role requires deep technical leadership, customer-facing engagement, and ownership of product strategy within a security-cleared environment.

The successful candidate will guide cross-disciplinary teams, drive product development excellence, and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver real operational outcomes while

Qualifications

• Significant leadership experience in complex engineering programs.
• Experience bridging technical teams and customers to deliver outcomes.
• Proven track record in problem solving and technical investigations.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and delivery of complex mechatronic and automated defence products.
• Act as voice of the customer to align product plans with operational needs.
• Manage multidisciplinary engineering teams and drive continuous improvement across processes.
• Influence product strategy, commercialisation, and future investment decisions.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Product development

Systems engineering

Customer engagement

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in engineering

Tools

Project management

Risk management

Job description

The Company is seeking a Head of Product and Programs with a strong background in mechatronics, robotics, automation, autonomous systems, advanced manufacturing, or defence technologies. The successful candidate will be a highly technical leader, capable of solving complex engineering challenges and engaging directly with customers to develop innovative solutions. This role is pivotal in guiding a suite of cutting-edge products from concept to commercialisation, ensuring they meet genuine operational outcomes. Responsibilities include leading the development and delivery of complex mechatronic and automated defence products, acting as the voice of the customer, managing multidisciplinary engineering teams, and driving continuous improvement across product development processes.To excel in this position, candidates must have significant experience in leading complex engineering, product development, or technology programs, and be comfortable operating at a senior level with ownership of products or technology portfolios. The role requires the ability to bridge the gap between technical teams and customers, strong stakeholder engagement skills, and a proven track record in problem-solving and technical investigations. Experience in business development, product commercialisation, and strategic growth activities is highly advantageous. The Head of Product and Programs will also be responsible for influencing product strategy, commercialisation, and future technology investment decisions, and must hold Australian Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a Defence Security Clearance.

Functions:

• Product Management
• Engineering

Growing Australian defence technology business developing advanced mechatronic and automated systems for defence applications.