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.

As a key member of the multi-disciplined Regional Procurement Centre (RPC), the role of the Procurement Category Manager is to manage the procurement of Mechanical parts, Equipped Shelters, Systems & subsystems for Thales Protected Vehicles (PRV) and other business domains from Under Water, GWEO, programmes to air traffic management solutions.

In this role, the Procurement Category Manager will ensure that the execution of the sourcing strategy is in line with the business and corporate objectives, and that timeframes and deliverables are aligned in order to deliver the best overall outcome (cost, service and/or quality) for Thales Australia.

KEY ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As a Procurement Category Manager, you are accountable for:

• Manage the suppliers’ portfolio for Mechanical/Systems & equipment categories
• Defining Long Term Procurement Strategy for categories
• Developing a category strategy, that meets the regional and global business objectives.
• Actively sourcing, assessing and qualifying potential suppliers.
• Setting up contractual agreements.
• Analysing and reporting on Spend Management.
• Executing the sourcing strategy through a disciplined RFI/ RFQ tendering process.
• Managing the RFQ process, which includes creation of RFQ package, release to market, review supplier responses, provide recommendations, including risks and opportunities.
• Influencing the design and/ or specification to generate additional savings;
• Proposing a negotiation strategy and lead the negotiation.
• Executing the procurement contract.
• Managing the supplier’s performance (quality, cost and timely delivery), including risks and opportunities.

KEY KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE
To be successful in your role, you will have demonstrated and/or acquired the following knowledge and experience:

• Technical/Engineering/Business degree and/ or demonstrated experience in a relevant discipline.
• Recognised professional accreditation (CIPS, EIPM, RICS or equivalent).
• 10+ Procurement experience or Strategic Sourcing within a high-tech environment with a specific focus on Armoured Vehicle, Arms , Ammunitions, Missiles market etc
• Good knowledge and expertise in local SME / International supplier base
• Experience in Procurement, Contract Management or Commercial experience
• Experience working in a complex Project environment.
• Experience working within a large organisation and dealing with all levels of management.
• Experience in negotiating and managing contract spends of up to $50M to $100M per annum.
• Ability to develop strong relationship with internal stakeholders and influence decisions.
• High levels of responsiveness and internal customer focus.

GOOD TO KNOW
Prior to being offered employment, you will need to complete pre-employment police and (role dependent) medical checks. 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 http://www.defence.gov.au/AGSVA/. 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.

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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.