Strategic Sourcing Lead - Auckland, AU, New Zealand

About the Role

Babcock is seeking an experienced and commercially astute Strategic Sourcing Lead to join our growing New Zealand team based at Devonport Naval Base. Reporting to the Program Portfolio Manager, this is an opportunity to play a critical role in supporting our operations as a trusted maritime partner to the New Zealand Defence Force. Working in a dynamic and complex environment, you will be responsible for leading sourcing strategies, contract solutions, and supplier management activities that directly contribute to the successful delivery of major projects and business outcomes.

In this role, you will drive end-to-end procurement and contracting activities, from developing sourcing strategies and leading complex tender processes through to contract negotiation, supplier performance management, and continuous improvement initiatives. You will build and maintain strong relationships with strategic suppliers and subcontractors, ensuring the delivery of commercially sound, value-for-money outcomes while effectively managing risk and compliance requirements. Working closely with Operations, Commercial, and Programme Delivery teams, you will ensure procurement strategies are aligned with project objectives and support long-term business success.

As a leader, you will guide and develop a team of procurement professionals, fostering a high-performance culture through coaching, mentorship, and professional development. You will also play a pivotal role in improving sourcing and supplier management practices, enhancing procurement processes, and delivering insights that support informed business decision-making.

This is a great opportunity to join a respected global organisation, contribute to the delivery of critical defence capability, and be part of a collaborative team making a tangible impact across New Zealand's maritime sector.

To be successful, you will bring:

• Legally entitled to work in New Zealand and capable of obtaining a New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) Security Clearance.
• Previous experience in a similar role within a complex, highly regulated environment.
• Relevant qualifications in Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Finance, Commerce, Law or related areas and/or suitable experience that provides similar competencies.
• Demonstrated experience managing end-to-end sourcing processes, including market analysis, supplier selection, negotiation, and contract formation, particularly in project-based or complex procurement environments.
• Proven ability to implement and manage supplier performance frameworks, resolve delivery or compliance issues, and drive continuous improvement in supplier outcomes.
• Strong experience in identifying, assessing, and managing commercial and contractual risks, with a solid understanding of legal and regulatory requirements relevant to procurement and contract execution.