Vendor Manager

Contracts Manager (EL1) | RFQTS-LH-04698

Location: Canberra, ACT (Onsite)

Start Date: 23 March 2026

Duration: 12 months + 2 x 6-month extensions

Clearance: NV1 Security Clearance (mandatory) + ASD OSA required

Client: Australian Signals Directorate (ASD)

Applications: Now open via LinkedIn Easy Apply

Azooa is inviting expressions of interest from experienced
Contracts Managers
(EL1 equivalent) to support a critical
protective security uplift program
with the
Australian Signals Directorate (ASD)
. This is a rare opportunity to work on classified, high-value, multi-phase projects that directly enhance Australia's national security infrastructure and operational resilience.

If you're a contracts or procurement professional who thrives in complex, high-stakes environments and understands the intricacies of Commonwealth frameworks, this is your chance to lead strategic contract outcomes for one of Australia's most vital agencies.

About the Role

The Contracts Manager will operate with autonomy and a high degree of accountability, supporting the end-to-end management of contracts underpinning secure infrastructure projects across ASD's Security and Integrity Branch. Working in an integrated, high-performing team, you'll deliver sophisticated commercial, risk, and performance management across large, sensitive engagements.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the
  full contract lifecycle
  : initiation, planning, sourcing, negotiation, execution, monitoring, performance evaluation, and closure.
• Lead the negotiation of complex contract terms and
  change management
  processes, including extensions and variations.
• Track and report on supplier deliverables, milestones, and compliance—ensuring accountability and performance.
• Identify and manage risks associated with contractual performance, proposing remediation and improvement strategies.
• Champion continuous improvement programs and embed lessons learned into future procurements and commercial practices.
• Engage stakeholders at all levels across ASD, Defence, and vendor networks, promoting aligned and transparent delivery outcomes.
• Prepare and review high-level documentation: contracts, reports, schedules, performance metrics, correspondence, risk plans, and procurement strategies.
• Provide
  technical leadership
  and commercial advice aligned with the
  Commonwealth Procurement Rules (CPRs)
  ,
  PGPA Act
  , and internal ASD frameworks.
• Support procurement planning, tendering, and formation processes where required, ensuring legal and policy compliance throughout.

Key Success Factors

You will thrive in this role if you:

Are highly experienced in government contract management, particularly in sensitive, high-value environments

Can quickly build trust and credibility with senior stakeholders and project partners

Understand ASD's operating environment and the strategic role of protective security projects

Have strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills

Are comfortable navigating governance frameworks, legislative compliance, and policy interpretation

Essential Criteria

1. Demonstrated understanding of, and experience in procurement and contract management within a government context
   , in compliance with the Commonwealth Procurement Rules, PGPA Act, and Australian Government Contract Management Principles.
2. Strong organisational and administrative skills
   , with the ability to liaise effectively with stakeholders and service providers in complex environments. Excellent written and oral communication and interpersonal capabilities.
3. Proven experience in monitoring contract performance
   , developing strategies to address underperformance, and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.

Desirable Criteria

• Formal qualifications in procurement and/or contract management will be highly regarded.

Security Requirements

To be eligible for this role, you must:

• Hold or be eligible for
  Negative Vetting Level 1 (NV1)
  security clearance
• Be willing to undergo the
  ASD Organisational Suitability Assessment (OSA)
  , which includes a psychological assessment. This process covers a range of sensitive areas including personal relationships, living circumstances, personal values, financial history, health background, substance use, and any civil/military records.

Please ensure you are prepared to undertake this assessment before applying.

Why Work on This Project?

• Impact
  : Help strengthen Australia's cyber and physical security posture
• Complexity
  : Work across multi-phase, technically sophisticated procurement and contract environments
• Visibility
  : Collaborate with some of Australia's leading experts in national security and secure infrastructure
• Growth
  : Influence strategic procurement decisions and bring best-practice to the fore
• Support
  : Join a responsive, transparent, and professional contracts team at Azooa

How to Apply

Click the
Easy Apply
button on this job post to submit your application directly through LinkedIn.