Senior Defence Risk & Commercial Manager

KBR; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

KBR in Australia is seeking an experienced Risk Manager to join a high-performing Defence program based in Melbourne. Reporting to the Branch Deputy Director, you will manage risk across branch, SPO, and project levels on a fixed-term contract to 15 October 2027.

The ideal candidate will bring a deep Defence or Government background, capability to lead complex negotiations, and a proven ability to mitigate commercial and contractual risks while supporting successful project delivery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Law, Finance, or equivalent demonstrated professional experience.
• 10+ years' experience in Defence and/or Government commercial management, procurement, or risk management.
• Proven experience supporting and leading complex negotiations.
• Strong understanding of commercial, contractual, and procurement frameworks.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
• The ability to analyse complex issues and develop practical risk mitigation strategies.
• Advanced proficiency across Microsoft Office applications.
• All candidates will be required to hold and maintain an active Baseline Defence Security Clearance. Only candidates holding a Baseline Clearance or above should apply.

Responsibilities

• Lead risk planning activities and provide expert risk management advice across projects and programs.
• Contribute to the development, negotiation, review, and management of contracts to mitigate risk and maximise commercial opportunities.
• Manage commercial risks across project finances, insurance, compliance, procurement, estimating, and controls activities.
• Support contract negotiations, including subcontract and purchase order development, ensuring appropriate risk allocation and contractual protections.
• Create and manage subcontract arrangements in alignment with project requirements and organisational standards.
• Monitor contract performance and ensure compliance with contractual obligations and internal governance requirements.
• Resolve client concerns and commercial issues in a timely and effective manner.
• Partner with internal business functions and stakeholders to deliver integrated commercial and risk management support.
• Provide strategic input into procurement and commercial decision-making to support successful project outcomes.

Skills

Risk management

Contract negotiation

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical thinking

Communication

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Law, Finance, or equivalent

Tools

Contract management software

Job description

KBR in Australia is seeking an experienced Risk Manager to join a high-performing Defence program based in Melbourne. Reporting to the Branch Deputy Director, you will manage risk across branch, SPO, and project levels on a fixed-term contract to 15 October 2027.

The ideal candidate will bring a deep Defence or Government background, capability to lead complex negotiations, and a proven ability to mitigate commercial and contractual risks while supporting successful project delivery.