Nuclear Powered Submarine Taskforce – Deputy Director General – Program and Policy - Department of Defence - EngineeringCareer

First listed on: 12 May 2023
Nuclear Powered Submarine Taskforce – Deputy Director General – Program and Policy

SES Band 3
Salary may be negotiated with the successful candidates
Canberra - ACT

Introduction
Australia’s acquisition of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines is historic and transformational. The Pathway announced on 14 March 2023, will deliver Australia a world-class capability that will see our nation become one of only seven countries that operate nuclear-powered submarines. This game changing capability will enhance Australia’s capacity to deter conflict and support security, peace and economic prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.

The magnitude of the work presents an exciting opportunity for a dedicated, committed and aspirational leader to shape the safe and secure delivery of this new technology.

The Deputy Director General – Program and Policy will provide direct high level advice to Defence Ministers, senior leadership across Defence and broader government and international partners.

Given the significant scope and responsibility of the role, the successful candidate should have extensive and demonstrated experience in strategic planning and delivery of major programs, international engagement and development, and implementation of policy frameworks.  A demonstrated track record in organisation leadership and ability to interact effectively across Government and industry is also highly desirable.

The ideal candidate will be a collaborative leader who has a nuclear mindset, exemplifies the Defence Values and Behaviours and engenders a culture of innovation and agility. They will be self-aware, and positive in considering and respecting diversity of ideas and the perspectives of others.

Your Role

The Deputy Director General – Program and Policy is responsible for the implementation of the Government's commitment to deliver the nuclear-powered submarine program as the principal agent responsible for leading the acquisition and ongoing sustainment of Australian’s future nuclear powered submarine fleet. The role is broad and diverse: it includes the acquisition and build of Australia’s nuclear-powered submarines and associated support systems; provision of sustainment and maintenance support; delivery of a fit for purpose disposal system including de-fuelling activities; ensuring policy and legal advice  are delivered to enable this new acquisition; and the development and management of relationships with critical stakeholders across all levels of government, with industry and with our international partners.

As the Deputy Director General - Programs and Policy you will need to demonstrate the right skills and experience to be at the forefront of one of Australia’s most challenging and complex industrial undertakings. You will lead an integrated workforce of dedicated professionals including ADF members, public service officers and contractors. This is truly a whole-of-Government activity, and you will be required to manage the enterprise across Government, both Federal and State, and establish effective relationships with industry leaders, AUKUS counterparts and relevant peak bodies and union representatives.

The successful candidate requires extensive and demonstrated experience in managing complex project management organisations and large commercial supply chains at a senior level. A strong track record in leading large teams, a commitment to building productive strategic relationships with Defence and core industry stakeholders, and experience working proactively with all levels of Government will be necessary to be competitive. The enterprise is subject to intense political, media and public scrutiny and you will need to be a polished, fluent and effective communicator.  

Experience working with or in defence industry, expertise in naval construction and sustainment, experience in public policy and/or working with the United States and United Kingdom industrial bases are highly desirable.

As a member of the senior leadership group, you must be able to promote a culture of innovation, collaboration and agility. You must also be able to effectively manage complex legislative and ethical frameworks to achieve capability outcomes for Defence and the Australian Government. Experience in leading and supporting staff through a significant period of change will be viewed favourably. 

Additional Information 
Engagement may be negotiated on an ongoing or non-ongoing basis. These are security-designated positions and the successful applicant will be required to hold or obtain a Top Secret Positive Vetting security clearance.

A Merit Pool of suitable candidates will be established to fill similar vacancies that may occur within the next 18 months. 

To discuss the requirements of these positions, after first reviewing the selection documentation, please contact Jonathan Beaumont – 02 6126 4500 - defence@beaumontandbeaumont.com.au quoting Reference Number 5412.

For Senior Executive Service administrative recruitment enquiries please contact the Directorate of Senior Officer Management at DSOM@defence.gov.au.

Application Closing Date: Sunday 28 May 2023

For further information please review the job information pack, reference NPST/04372/23 on https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/?jati=2AFB9F19-AA71-1127-C430-D1A60B41E82A