Head of Quality – Maritime

Head of Quality – Maritime

Job Location: This role is based in Adelaide SA.

We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements including a 9-day fortnight

Who we are:

Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow – shaping a safer future, for all of us.

From the depths of the ocean, to the far reaches of space – there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.

Role Description:

Reporting to the Head of Enablement, you will be accountable for developing business capability and performance through the establishment, and implementation of Quality strategies, policies, and procedures whilst ensuring alignment with the overall program Strategy.

Core Duties:

• Lead Maritime Quality Function, enable performance and develop capability and talent:
  • Develop and deliver Quality strategy and objectives ensuring alignment with program strategy and Enterprise Quality functional strategy
  • Lead the deployment, execution and ongoing certification of Quality Management Systems across the program
  • Enabling team members to achieve their full potential and to deliver their best work and create opportunities for the team to learn and grow and support build the long-term capability of the team
  • Develop relationships and stakeholder network, processes and effective management of workstreams, providing regular feedback and providing resources required to deliver
  • Project Manage contracted scope delivery, act as CAM and support bid development and submission as a Quality SME.
• Quality Assurance
  • Embed sound Quality Management, Assurance and control practices including performance management to ensure compliance

• Quality Control
  • Develop and implement Quality Control capability i.e. process, tools and equipment, to support early phases of the program including Production Demonstration and Prototyping
  • Liaise with UK counterparts to align on capability pathway milestones, manage the transfer of applicable knowledge, and bridge gap to Australian NSQEP capability
• Quality Engineering
  • Establish and mentor a team of Program Quality Engineers, solving quality problems and fostering a culture of continuous improvement
• Supplier Quality Assurance
  • Working with Supply Chain, develop and implement supplier quality assurance process, assist with supplier approval, ongoing compliance assessments and audits
  • Support the engagement with Australian Industry, highlighting step change in various compliance requirements across the program, and maintaining alignment with UK counterparts

About You

• Degree Qualification in Engineering or Quality Management with extensive experience in Senior Management or Executive Quality roles
• Subject matter expertise in Quality Management, operations and Management systems with knowledge of development and management of complex combatant Ships Build assurance programs
• Significant demonstrated experience in senior quality role ideally in Maritime, construction or oil and gas industry with some exposure in project management
• Strong knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) and quality tools (e.g., FMEA, SPC, PFMEA, etc.)
• Lead by example by demonstrating collaboration across multiple functions, businesses and the programs to implement problem solving techniques and improve productivity
• Lateral thinker, inclusive, engaging leader with a focus on continuous improvement and service-led delivery
• Certification/Diploma in Quality Certification Standards essential with Quality auditor certification is essential

Why BAE Systems?

Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work – this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what’s most important to you and your family – support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.

A place where everyone can thrive

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.

We support our veteran community through VetNet Australia, along with initiatives such as Reserve Service Leave, a Veteran Mentoring Program, and partner-supported programs.

We welcome applications from all candidates and strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to apply.

We are proud to be recognised as an employer of choice for women by WORK180 and recipients of the Benchmarcx Top Employer for Candidate Experience Excellence 2026. As members of the Circle Back Initiative, we commit to responding to every applicant.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact our recruitment team to discuss the support you may need. You can also connect with us via Careers and Employment.

Security statement

Please note, as a defence security clearance is required for this role, applicants must be Australian citizens and either possess or be eligible to obtain and maintain one. Further information regarding security clearances. (Remove for non-ITAR role) International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) are applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role. Please visit this webpage for more information