Posted: 24/03/2026 Closing Date: 30/03/2026 Job Type: Permanent - Full Time Location: Hume Job Category: Logistics, Supply & Transport
EOS Defence Systems (EOS DS) is seeking an experienced Strategic Sourcing Manager to lead our Strategic Sourcing function and drive best‐in‐class procurement outcomes across our global production footprint. This pivotal role is responsible for developing sourcing strategy, optimising supplier performance, and ensuring the reliable flow of materials and components critical to our advanced products manufactured in Australia and internationally.
Job Description Overview of Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Supplier Management
* Lead the Strategic Sourcing team and develop strong strategic relationships with key suppliers locally and globally.
* Develop and execute sourcing strategies aligned with EOS' commercial, quality, production, and supply chain objectives.
* Select and manage vendors for make‐to‐order materials and services, ensuring alignment with engineering and technical requirements.
* Evaluate supplier capability and capacity to reduce bottlenecks, enhance quality, and improve value for money through competitive tension and robust commercial analysis.
* Promote a "design for manufacture and optimal value" mindset throughout product R&D.
Global Supply Chain Optimisation
* Contribute to the development of a globally efficient supply chain, including assessing procurement hubs and global vs. local sourcing options for production and sustainment operations.
* Identify and remove waste in procurement activities to achieve commercial advantage.
* Support supplier engagement during product development to drive cost‐efficient, high‐quality manufacturing outcomes.
Operational Excellence
* Own and improve preferred supplier agreements, pricing structures, and vendor performance records.
* Utilise EOS' Epicor MRP/ERP system to manage quotations, agreements, demand review, and vendor data, while uplifting system utilisation across the Supply Chain team.
* Develop and implement procedures for RFQs and quotation management integrated with Epicor and business needs.
* Act as an escalation point for supplier performance, lead time exceptions, and dispute resolution.
Production, Estimating & Support Activities
* Maintain a strong understanding of production schedules, material specifications, drawings, and manufacturing methods.
* Support estimating and costing activities by obtaining competitive quotes for aftermarket, sustainment, and bid proposals.
* Work with Production Planners to maintain appropriate stock levels aligned with build schedules.
* Assist with expediting orders, managing vendor delays, and ensuring accurate ERP updates.
Supplier Onboarding & Governance
* Lead supplier onboarding and off‐boarding in partnership with the Purchasing Manager, ensuring compliance with EOS processes and sourcing objectives.
* Establish systems for regular supplier reviews and contribute to broader supply chain reporting.
* Conduct supplier visits and lead cross-functional supplier engagement activities.
Desired Skills and Experience
Qualifications:
* Thorough understanding of engineering drawings and Bills of Materials.
* Supply Chain, Engineering, Manufacturing trade or degree qualification
* Commercial/business qualifications also desirable
* APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or Certified Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM) highly regarded
* CIPS accreditations highly regarded.
Key Attributes:
* Excellent general verbal and written communication skills
* Persuasive communication and influencing skills
* Interest in engineering and production processes and details
* Attention to detail oriented
* Solution orientated
* Problem Solver
* Organised; with skills to plan ahead
* Collaborative team player
* Meets tight deadlines
* Demonstrates pragmatism and sound judgement
Experience:
Comprehensive experience in international sourcing and procurement.
Minimum 8 years' experience in a similar role with manufacturing and/or engineering organisation, OEM, FMCG, recognised Supply Chains.
International business experience. Commercial qualifications desirable
Extensive supplier negotiation experience
Extensive supplier performance management experience
Experience in contributing to product R&D from a supply chain perspective
Experience in interpreting requirements of, and sourcing products and materials using engineering drawings and specifications
Experience with certain manufacturing processes and procedures, eg. Metal fabrication or electronic devices desirable.
Experience optimising use of ERP systems and MRP systems from a sourcing / supply chain perspective.