Procurement Lead

Austal; Cockburn; On-site; AUD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Austal, based in Henderson, Western Australia, is seeking a Procurement Lead to drive operational procurement across the business. You will collaborate with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and the Supply Chain team to source, manage purchase orders, oversee supplier performance and ensure governance compliance.

You will mentor offshore procurement teams, drive cost-saving opportunities, and provide guidance on procurement policies while maintaining a strong focus on Total Cost of Ownership and

Qualifications

• 3+ years' experience in Procurement, Purchasing, Supply Chain, or a related discipline.
• Experience in Engineering, Manufacturing or Defence environments.
• Proven ability to guide stakeholders and team members through procurement processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational procurement and sourcing activities to support timely delivery of goods and services.
• Guide stakeholders through procurement processes to achieve business outcomes and ensure high service levels.
• Oversee sourcing, requisitions, purchase orders, and supplier management.

Skills

Influencing

Negotiation

Communication

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Procurement processes

Mentoring

Education

CIPS qualification in Supply Chain Management

Bachelor's degree in Procurement / Supply Chain / Business

Tools

IFS ERP

Job description

Based in Henderson, the Procurement Lead is responsible for leading operational procurement activities to ensure the timely and accurate provision of goods and services across the business.

Working closely with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and the broader Supply Chain team, you will support procurement outcomes through sourcing, purchase order management, supplier management, and governance activities. You will also provide guidance to customers and procurement team members, ensuring procurement requests are delivered efficiently and in accordance with established processes.

About Austal

Austal isAustralia’s global shipbuilder, Defence prime contractor; and maritime technology partner of choice. We design, construct, and support defence and commercial vessels for the world’s leading operators with operations spanning Australia, the USA, Philippines, and Vietnam. With operations spanning multiple sites, Austal offers diverse career opportunities in trades, maintenance, engineering support, project services, corporate functions and operational delivery.

Under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, Austal is leading a new era of continuous naval shipbuilding in Western Australia. We’re driving innovation, supporting sovereign capability, and creating long-term opportunities for Australian industry and workers.

This is your opportunity to contribute to projects of national significance. The maritime is now.

What’s Involved

• Lead operational procurement and sourcing activities to support the timely delivery of goods and services.
• Support and guide stakeholders through procurement processes to achieve business outcomes and ensure a high level of customer service.
• Process and oversee procurement activities including sourcing, requisitions, purchase orders, and supplier management.
• Provide procurement subject matter expertise and advice to internal customers on procurement policies, processes, and governance requirements.
• Provide operational leadership to offshore procurement team.
• Coach and mentor Procurement team members and provide support to the Category Specialist.
• Manage supplier performance and participate in supplier audits and supplier management activities.
• Partner with internal and external stakeholders to identify and deliver supply chain improvements and cost‑saving opportunities, with a focus on Total Cost of Ownership.
• Provide ERP procurement support and guidance to internal customers.
• Promote procurement best practice and advocate for compliance with Austal's procurement framework and governance requirements.
• Act as a role model for Austal's values and behaviours.

You’ll Need

• Excellent influencing, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Experience in leadership of offshore procurement/purchasing team.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management capabilities.
• Demonstrated experience working within a computerised ERP environment, preferably IFS.
• Sound understanding of procurement processes, sourcing activities, and supplier management principles.
• Ability to provide guidance and support to both stakeholders and team members.
• Eligibility for a Defence Security Clearance.
• 3+ years' experience in Procurement, Purchasing, Supply Chain, or a related discipline.
• Experience within an Engineering, Manufacturing, Defence, or similar environment.
• CIPS qualification in Supply Chain Management.
• Tertiary qualification in Procurement, Supply Chain, Business, Commerce, or a related field.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• A supportive and dynamic work environment.
• Opportunities for career advancement within our growing organisation.

At Austal we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive work environment for all. We believe that achieving greater diversity will enhance our operations and as such we actively encourage Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, sexual orientation, and those with Disability to apply. Veterans are also encouraged to apply.

IndustryProcurement, Manufacturing & Transport