General Manager - SIX

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.

We are seeking an experienced General Manager to lead and grow our Defence-focused Secure Communications and Information Systems (SIX) business, delivering sovereign, secure capabilities for the Australian Defence customer.

Reporting to the Vice President UVX and working from either the Nation's Capital, Canberra, on Ngunnawal land or from our Rydalmere Centre of Excellence in Sydney, on Darug land, your role purpose will be:

• Full accountability for business performance, strategy, delivery and people leadership.

• Lead delivery of complex Defence programs with full P&L accountability.

• Drive growth, order intake and profitability.

• Build trusted relationships with Defence customers, other defence primes and strategic partners.

• Collaborate with Thales businesses in other parts of the world to bring the very best solutions to the Australian Defence customer.

• Secure and manage key industry and technology partnerships.

• Establish and scale high-performing teams located in Sydney, Canberra and Perth.

• Drive the development of digital and cyber products aligned to Defence priorities.

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

• A strong strategic thinking who can anticipate future customer needs in a rapidly evolving Defence environment and develop strategies to secure opportunities to grow the business.

• Proven leadership, financial acumen, change management, and communication skills, preferably in critical information systems or secure communications 

• Strong commercial and stakeholder management expertise with knowledge of defence contracting

• Track record of delivering complex development or production programs through empowered, high-performing teams

• Strong stakeholder leadership skills, with the ability to influence, collaborate, and build trusted relationships

• Bachelor of Engineering, MBA (or equivalent), with eligibility for CPEng and Australian engineering registration

As part of our commitment, we offer:

• Competitive remuneration + Super + Bonus + Medical Insurance

• ThalesFlex – Hybrid work environment

• Recognised leader in reservist employee support

• Veterans Leave

• 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

• Novated Lease options

• Family support through our partnership with Parents at Work

• Personal & professional training development opportunities

• Sonder – Wellbeing & Support Partner

• Access to a network of the best people (A Noble Prize winner on our staff list!)

• And much more!

Good to Know

Prior to being offered employment, you will need to complete pre-employment police and (role dependent) medical checks.

A NV 2 Defence security clearance is required for this role; applicants must be Australian citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain an appropriate clearance.

Internal candidates from FVEY countries (United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) with existing security clearances are encouraged to apply.

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. 

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.