HR Manager - Defence
- Location:
- Heatherton, Victoria, Australia
- Posted:
- 15th June 2026
- Advertiser:
- Hays - ANZ - 2992132
- High impact, high visibility role
- Global exposure with meaningful work
- Shaping workforce strategy in a complex defence environment
Your new company
You will be joining a globally recognised engineering and defence manufacturer at the forefront of advanced technology and mission-critical systems. With a strong and growing Australian footprint, this organisation plays a key role in supporting complex defence programs and high precision manufacturing. Known for its innovation, investment in people, and global reach, the business offers a rare combination of the agility of a local leadership team with the backing of an international organisation. If you are driven by purpose, impact, and working alongside high calibre professionals, this is where you will want to be.
Your new role
This is a pivotal leadership role where you will operate as the go-to HR partner for a key site sitting at the heart of business decision-making. You will not just deliver HR, you will shape the workforce strategy, influence senior stakeholders, and directly impact performance, culture, and growth.
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Partner closely with senior leaders to align people strategy with business objectives
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Take full ownership of all site-based HR activity from hiring strategy through to organisational design and workforce planning
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Lead and elevate core HR processes including performance, succession, and remuneration cycles
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Act as a trusted advisor on complex employee relations matters, providing balanced and commercially sound guidance
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Champion a high performance culture, driving engagement, capability, and leadership effectiveness
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Collaborate with global HR specialists to bring best in class programs and frameworks to life locally
This is a highly visible and influential position where your voice will be heard and your impact will be tangible.
What you'll need to succeed
You are an experienced HR leader who thrives in complex and highly regulated environments and enjoys working at both a strategic and operational level.
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Proven experience in a senior HR generalist or HR leadership role within the defence sector this is essential
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A strong track record in workforce planning, organisational design, talent acquisition, and employee relations
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The confidence to challenge, influence, and coach senior stakeholders
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Commercial acumen and the ability to connect HR outcomes to business performance
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Experience within manufacturing or engineering environments alongside defence exposure
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Strong analytical capability and comfort working with HR systems and data
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Excellent communication skills with a natural ability to build trust at all levels
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You will also need to meet security clearance requirements including Australian Citizenship
What you'll get in return
This is more than just a job it is a career-defining opportunity. You will benefit from;
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A genuine seat at the leadership table with the ability to shape strategy
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A high impact role where your work directly influences business success
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The opportunity to work within a globally connected organisation
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Exposure to international stakeholders and best practice HR frameworks
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A collaborative and high-performing environment with strong leadership support
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Ongoing career development and progression opportunities
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Competitive salary and benefits package
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The chance to work on meaningful and purpose-driven projects within the defence sector
If you are ready to step into a role where you can truly make your mark within Australia's defence industry, this is it.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV to nicola.jones@hays.com.au, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.
