Head of Industry Operations, Performance and Continuous Improvement

At Thales, we know technology has the ability to make our world more secure, sustainable, and inclusive – and that it's all driven by human intelligence.

Because it takes human intelligence to build and power the systems and solutions that people depend on every day. So we stay curious and make space for diverse points of view. We share what we know and we challenge what's possible.

From manufacturing and engineering to cybersecurity and space, we're driving progress in some of the world's most important industries – and working together to build a future we can all trust.

OUR BENEFITS 

• Competitive remuneration + Super + Bonus + Medical Insurance

• ThalesFlex – Hybrid work environment

• Fitness Passport Discount – Access to a network of Gyms across AUS

• Employee discounts with a number of affiliates (Travel, Car hire, Tech, Medical Insurance)

• Modernised Paid Parental Leave

• Veterans Leave

• Novated Lease options

• Diverse and inclusive workplace

• Personal & professional training development opportunities

YOUR ROLE

As the Head of Industrial Operations, Performance & Continuous Improvement, you will be the driving force behind operational excellence and business transformation across Industry for Thales Australia.

You will lead national initiatives in Lean, performance management, and continuous improvement, ensuring we consistently deliver value to our customers while supporting our teams in the field.

You'll bridge strategic goals with on-the-ground execution — enhancing efficiency, building capability, and embedding a culture of sustainable performance.

Located in North Sydney's Rydalmere, on Darug land, your role purpose will be -

• Lead the deployment of the Thales Industrial Operating Model (TIOM) across the business

• Drive Lean transformation efforts, providing coaching, training, and expert guidance to teams and stakeholders

• Champion a culture of continuous improvement through performance measurement systems and recurring/non-recurring cost analysis

• Support senior leaders through Gemba walks, data-driven decision-making, and operational insight

• Oversee HSE compliance, business continuity (BCM), sustainability, and emissions reduction initiatives

• Coordinate key industrial planning activities including S&OP, budget cycles (MYB, SBP), and Chorus PMD processes

• Represent customer interests within the ICC, with a strong focus on satisfaction and value creation

• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and contribute to national certifications and regulatory readiness

YOUR EXPERIENCE

On day one in this role, we'll expect you to bring the following skills, experience and behaviours:

• Must have proven experience in industrial operations, performance improvement, or lean leadership within a complex, matrixed environment

• Strong knowledge of the elements of industrial operations across supply chain, process engineering, lean, digital and industrial architecture

• Routine extensive experience and use of ERP

• Strong knowledge of industrial/supply chain IT & use of dashboards (analysis, decision support)

• Understanding of continuous improvement and management tools (Lean: flow management, conducting Gemba Walks, Compass Room, Plan, Do Check Act (PDCA))

• Strong understanding of HSE standards, sustainability frameworks, and industrial planning

• Ability to lead national initiatives and collaborate with cross-functional teams

• A mindset for innovation, transformation, and customer-centric delivery

• Relevant tertiary education and Association for Supply Chain Management (APICS): Certified in Planning & Inventory Management (CPIM) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) certification at a minimum (or the equivalent professional experience)

GOOD TO KNOW

A Defence security clearance is required for this role, applicants must be Australian citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain an appropriate clearance.

Additional information with regards to clearances is available from the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency website In some cases, individuals who hold a current clearance from a foreign government may be eligible to have this clearance recognised by the Australian Government and be eligible for this role. The Australian Defence Trade Controls Act (DTCA) is applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role.

The U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR) are applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role. 

WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO APPLY

After you have applied, you will receive an email acknowledging your application. We'll then provide a personalised experience for suitable applicants as we progress the selection and assessment process. Prior to being offered employment, you will need to complete pre-employment police and depending on the role type, medical checks as well.

#LI-LF

It's easy to dismiss the perfect opportunity if you don't see yourself as the perfect fit. If this role feels right – no matter your background or personal circumstances – please introduce yourself or join our community. We're committed to supporting a diverse workplace, and that starts here.

We're proud to be endorsed by WORK180 as an Employer for All Women, but we know there's always more we can do. We'll continue to foster industry partnerships, employee resource groups (ERGs) and development opportunities to make Thales a genuinely equitable employer, for everyone.

Read more about our WORK180 endorsement.