Head of Quality - LAND

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.

OUR BENEFITS

• Competitive remuneration + Super + Bonus + Free Medical Insurance

• Annualised Performance Review Process

• ThalesFlex – Hybrid work environment

• 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

• Veterans Leave

• Novated Lease options

• Family support through our partnership with Parents at Work

• Personal & professional training development opportunities

• Sonder – Wellbeing & Support Partner

In this pivotal role, you will enable business growth by embedding Quality and Process Excellence across our LAND domain, including Protected Vehicles, Integrated Weapon Systems, and Explosive Ordnance Services.

You will lead quality improvement initiatives across the full lifecycle, driving consistent, repeatable practices that reduce waste, lower the cost of non-quality, and support strategic growth.

YOUR ROLE

• Reduce risk across the LAND portfolio while championing customer satisfaction

• Provide independent quality assurance and clear performance insight

• Ensure project deliverables meet customer requirements, regulations, and standards

• Drive continuous improvement and lead corrective and preventative actions to address systemic issues and promote a continuous improvement culture

• Build a strong quality culture with functional leaders and operational teams to improve outcomes and reduce waste

• Manage the LAND Management System, including reviews and certifications, ensuring consistent process application and risk mitigation

• Strategically reshape the team and optimise resources to meet business needs

YOUR EXPERIENCE

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

• Tertiary qualification in engineering or a related technical discipline, ideally with Lean/Process Improvement certification (e.g. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt)

• Change management qualification (e.g. PROSCI) and audit qualification (e.g. Lead Auditor), analytics or BI certification desirable

• Proven leadership in quality management within industrial, manufacturing, or systems engineering environments in complex production sectors

• Strong knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Business Excellence)

• Financial acumen including budgeting, cost control and quotation preparation

• Strategic influencer able to drive continuous improvement and shape culture across the organisation

• Exceptional communication skills, including senior-level reporting, presentation and data storytelling

• Structured problem-solver (e.g. 8D, Ishikawa) with experience leading cross-functional teams

• Highly organised with strong time management and delivery focus

• Availability to travel

AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE ROLES & SECURITY

A 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.

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.