Senior Program Manager
About Cubic Defence Australia
Cubic Defence Australia is a trusted partner to the Australian Defence Force, delivering advanced training, mission support, and high-technology capability solutions. We manage complex defence programs that integrate hardware, software, and electro-mechanical systems to deliver operationally relevant outcomes.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced
Senior Program Manager
to lead the delivery of one or more high-value, high-risk defence programs valued between
$15–$50 million
. This role has total system-level responsibility and requires strong leadership, commercial acumen, and deep understanding of ADF operational and headquarters environments.
You will act as the
primary customer interface
, ensuring contractual obligations are met within cost, schedule, and performance parameters, while driving program growth and follow-on business opportunities. This role operates with limited supervision and carries significant decision-making authority.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the end-to-end delivery of complex defence programs involving hardware, software, and electro-mechanical systems
* Act as the primary point of contact for customers on assigned programs
* Ensure contractual, technical, schedule, and financial performance objectives are achieved
* Manage all program phases including proposal development, design, procurement, subcontracting, manufacturing, testing, delivery, installation, and acceptance
* Plan and direct cross-functional program teams across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and support functions
* Perform program financial management, including profit, cash flow, and Earned Value Management (EVM)
* Actively manage risk, identify emerging issues, and implement risk reduction strategies
* Grow assigned programs through contract changes, enhancements, and pre-planned product improvements
* Lead proposal development, including statements of work, cost estimates, technical approaches, and contract negotiations
* Support business development and marketing activities to secure follow-on and new business
* Where required, directly manage staff including performance management and reviews.
ADF & Operational Expertise
* Strong understanding of
Brigade Headquarters functions and requirements
* Operational experience within the
Australian Defence Force
* Previous service as a
sub-unit or unit commander
, or as a
staff officer at Brigade or Division Headquarters
* Understanding of
joint and multi-domain warfare roles
and contemporary military positions
* Ability to leverage a strong
Joint Military network.
Essential Qualifications
* University degree (or equivalent) in Project Management, Information Systems, Technology Management, Computer Science, or a related discipline
* Project Management certification (
PRINCE2 or PMBOK
).
Essential Skills & Experience
* Minimum
10 years' experience
delivering projects, including complex defence programs
* Proven experience delivering contemporary military or defence training outcomes
* Current
NV1 security clearance
* Strong experience managing multiple high-value programs ($10M+) concurrently
* Proficiency in MS Office, including
Microsoft Project
,
PowerPoint
, and
Oracle Primavera P6
* Demonstrated leadership capability with experience managing multidisciplinary teams
* Proven contribution to business development and proposal activities.
Personal Attributes
* Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
* Strong commercial awareness and negotiation capability
* Decisive, proactive leader able to operate with minimal supervision
* Highly motivated, accountable, and outcome focused
* Comfortable working across both strategic and detailed levels
* Able to manage ambiguity, establish structure, and drive clarity
* Adaptable and embraces change
Compliance & Conditions of Employment
* Comply with Cubic's Quality Management System
* Adhere to Cubic Occupational Health, Safety and Environment policies
* Comply with all organisational security policies and procedures
* Successful completion of a
National Police Check