Strategic Outsourcing Lead – Quality

Job Description

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:

We have an opportunity for a Strategic Outsourcing Lead – Quality to join the SSN AUKUS Program, based in our Flinders Street or Osborne Offices, reporting to the Head of Quality on a permanent full-time basis. This is a newly created, externally facing role focused on supplier and supply chain integration, driven by a strategic outsourcing model aligned with evolving manufacturing and supply chain requirements, while ensuring full regulatory compliance. Operating within the Operations Strategic Outsourcing Team, this role is responsible for delivering the supplier product assurance program. Extensive professional development also on offer including Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), nuclear and enterprise systems.

Enjoy flexible work options, including hybrid work and a 9-day fortnight. Note, some domestic/international travel and after-hours meetings with UK stakeholders required.

Core Duties:

• Supplier and subcontractor approvals and associated system completion
• Process and product surveillance, including pre-delivery inspections
• Allocation of correct Quality Assurance codes to POs within the ERM system (direct and indirect products)
• Development of technical requirements documentation with Manufacturing Engineering for outsourced build and assurance requirements
• Stage inspections of manufactured product
• Witnessing Factory Acceptance Tests (as required)
• Review and approval of Supplier Quality Management Plans and Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs)
• Completion of Predelivery Verification Inspections (PVI)
• Approval of Final Inspection Certificates authorising supplier shipment to BAES
• Production of supplier product assurance performance metrics
• Management of supplier non-conformances and corrective actions
• Development and maintenance of Supplier Product Quality assurance processes within the BMS
• Capture and implementation of lessons learned from the Marine Strategic Outsourcing Team

Essential Skills:

• Qualifications in Engineering and/or Quality/Auditing (preferred)
• Relevant leadership experience and training highly regarded
• Strong Quality Assurance background in defence or complex regulated manufacturing environments (ISO 9001)
• Experience in supplier quality, including supplier approval, ITP development, and quality governance across complex supply chains
• Proven ability to lead investigations, root cause analysis, and drive corrective and preventative actions
• Experience building or maturing quality systems in early-phase or high-growth program environments
• Ability to operate in complex, regulated defence environments with competing priorities and evolving requirements
• Strong stakeholder engagement across engineering, production, supply chain, and external defence partners

The AUKUS Team

In early 2024, the Australian Government selected BAE Systems and ASC Pty Ltd to build Australia’s new fleet of nuclear-powered submarines in a significant development in the AUKUS trilateral security pact between the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia. This program will focus on developing advanced submarine capabilities, integrating cutting-edge technology, and fostering international cooperation among Australia, the UK, and the US.

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. 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.