Commercial Lead

Join our Downer Professional Services team and play a key role in delivering complex defence and national security projects that safeguard Australia's future.

Downer Professional Services is comprised of two business units, our Technical, Advisory, and Capability consulting practice and Team Downer, a major service partner to Defence. Together, we are a multi-disciplinary advisory and delivery partner of choice for our clients in Defence and National Security.

We currently have an opportunity for a Commercial Lead in Adelaide to join the Space Systems Branch within the Space Domain Awareness System Program Office.

What You'll Do

This role offers a broad scope, with key responsibilities including:

• Lead procurement planning, tendering, contract formation, and ongoing contract management, ensuring compliance with legislation and policy.
• Provide accurate and timely advice on procurement policy, legal, financial, and technical matters to support contract outcomes.
• Prepare high-quality procurement documentation including reports, submissions, strategies, risk reviews, and contract change proposals.
• Engage with clients and stakeholders, manage complex enquiries, and negotiate contract issues with initiative and professionalism.
• Apply legal principles and ensure adherence to legislative and policy frameworks, focusing on commercial risk and performance.
  
  

What You'll Bring

• Demonstrated experience in commercial, business, or procurement roles within complex organisational environments, with a strong understanding of contract management principles and procurement lifecycle processes.
• A track record of successfully leading and managing teams, with the ability to supervise tasking at an APS6 level, foster collaboration, and drive performance in dynamic and multidisciplinary settings.
• A sound understanding of Commonwealth procurement policies, legislative frameworks, and Defence-specific governance requirements, with the ability to apply these effectively to ensure compliance and strategic alignment.
• Demonstrated critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex commercial issues, identify risks, and develop practical and compliant solutions that support business objectives.
• Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently with internal and external stakeholders, negotiate effectively.

Due to the nature of the work, you are required to currently hold and maintain a minimum Negative Vetting 1 or higher Security clearance as required by the Commonwealth. In some instances, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may also be an inherent requirement.

More than anything, you'll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients.

Why Downer Professional Services

At Downer Professional Services, we're not just a workplace - we're a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the country's only sovereign prime, we're committed to making a real difference in protecting Australia's interests.

What is means to belong at Downer Professional Services

• Meaningful work: Help to deliver critical Defence projects that protect Australia and shape its future.
• Professional development: Access career mapping, accelerated learning programs, and shared learning through our Communities of Practice.
• Great perks: Enjoy discounts on healthcare, retail, vehicles, and more through Perks@Downer.
• Veteran support: Benefit from initiatives like up to 20 days of Reservist Leave to stay connected post-service.

Downer Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including First Nations people and those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Salary match Number of applicants Skills match

Downer is the leading provider of integrated services in Australia and New Zealand. Driven by our purpose to enable communities to thrive, we deliver essential infrastructure services that improve the lives of millions of people every day and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Downer is one of Australia and New Zealand's largest employers, with 31,000 people who are united by a high-performance culture, called 'The Downer Difference'. Our teams operate in sectors that are closely connected to population growth, urbanisation, national security, and decarbonisation – including roads, rail, ports and airports, power, gas, water, telecommunications, health, education and defence.

Downer is the leading provider of integrated services in Australia and New Zealand. Driven by our purpose to enable communities to thrive, we deliver essential infrastructure services that improve the lives of millions of people every day and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Downer is one of Australia and New Zealand's largest employers, with 31,000 people who are united by a high-performance culture, called 'The Downer Difference'. Our teams operate in sectors that are closely connected to population growth, urbanisation, national security, and decarbonisation – including roads, rail, ports and airports, power, gas, water, telecommunications, health, education and defence.

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