Head of Strategic Initiatives

At Thales, we know technology has the ability to make our world more secure, sustainable, and inclusive – driving this technology are our people.

It takes talented people to build and power the systems and solutions that communities depend on every day. So, we stay curious and make space for diverse points of view.

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 Head of Strategic Initiatives, you will be at the forefront of delivering Australia’s Strategic Business Plan, ensuring Thales remains an indispensable partner in defence, cyber, civil, and airspace technologies.

Partnering directly with the Vice President of Strategy and Growth, you will lead a dynamic, cross-disciplinary team encompassing Strategy, Government Relations, Exports, Partnerships, and Market Intelligence.

Your leadership will translate ambitious goals into concrete actions, aligning Australia’s defence priorities with Thales Group’s global vision amid evolving geopolitical landscapes.

Located in North Sydney's Rydalmere, on Darug land, your role purpose will be -

• Drive strategic growth campaigns, mitigating risks while building strong alliances across leadership and customer forums
• Lead the Strategic Enablers team to develop integrated solutions that enhance sovereign capabilities and reinforce Thales as Australia’s trusted defence partner
• Support executive leadership with seamless management of platforms, real-time market insights, and rigorous budget oversight
• Champion proactive risk management, ensure strict compliance, and implement robust contingency plans
• Fuel growth through a purpose-driven culture, impactful ESG initiatives, and strategic talent acquisition for mission-critical role

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

• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and align diverse groups around shared strategic goals
• Unwavering integrity with a demonstrated commitment to protecting sensitive or classified information.
• Exceptional leadership experience in building and guiding diverse, high-performing teams that thrive on collaboration and respect
• A proactive mindset that anticipates and removes obstacles, ensuring flawless execution.
• Resilience and adaptability in navigating complex, fast-changing environments. 
• An undergraduate degree in liberal arts, science & technology, law, finance, engineering, HR, or related disciplines
• A strong track record in strategy and growth roles—including sales, business development, or capture management
• Experience in defence or national security sectors is a distinct advantage, though not mandatory

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 1 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.

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.