WHS Project Lead for Defence & Tech

Nova Partners Executive Search & Selection; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Nova Partners Executive Search & Selection – Melbourne VIC is seeking an experienced WHS Lead/Manager – Projects to guide and deliver a portfolio of priority safety improvement initiatives across the business. This hands-on role focuses on project lifecycle from assessment to handover, not day-to-day site safety management.

The successful candidate will report to the Chief People Officer, collaborate with the WHSE team and operational leaders, and bring practical regulatory knowledge, project

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience delivering WHS projects in complex operational environments.
• Strong knowledge of Commonwealth WHS Act, Regulations, Codes of Practice.
• Practical experience in hazardous chemicals management, contractor safety, emergency management.
• Ability to translate regulatory requirements into practical operational solutions; strong project management.

Responsibilities

• Lead a portfolio of safety improvement projects across the business.
• Review and strengthen chemical management framework, registers, SDS and controls.
• Update emergency plans and procedures; support emergency exercises.
• Improve contractor onboarding, induction, prequalification, risk assessment and contractor safety verification.
• Establish frameworks for WHS training, licensing and competency verification.
• Review and update WHS policies, procedures and work instructions.
• Develop project plans, milestones and reporting; handover to BAU.

Skills

WHS projects

Stakeholder engagement

Project management

Regulatory knowledge

Hazardous chemicals

Emergency planning

Contractor safety

Documentation & compliance

ISO 45001

Education

Diploma in WHS/OHS

Bachelor’s degree in WHS/Risk management

Job description

Nova Partners Executive Search & Selection – Melbourne VIC is seeking an experienced WHS Lead/Manager – Projects to guide and deliver a portfolio of priority safety improvement initiatives across the business. This hands-on role focuses on project lifecycle from assessment to handover, not day-to-day site safety management.

The successful candidate will report to the Chief People Officer, collaborate with the WHSE team and operational leaders, and bring practical regulatory knowledge, project