Join one of Australia's fastest-growing defence organisations and play a leading role in shaping the future of sovereign defence capability.
Hanwha Defence Australia (HDA) is seeking an accomplished
Head of Business Development & Strategy
to lead our strategic planning and business development functions. Reporting directly to the
Chief Strategy Business Officer (CSBO) / Deputy CEO
, this senior leadership role is responsible for driving corporate strategy, identifying and pursuing growth opportunities, and strengthening HDA's position within the Australian and global defence market.
This is a unique opportunity for a strategic and commercially astute leader to influence major defence programs, build key stakeholder relationships, and contribute to HDA's long-term growth and success.
About the Role
As the Head of Business Development & Strategy, you will be responsible for developing and executing HDA's strategic direction while leading business growth initiatives across domestic and international markets.
You will work closely with senior leaders, Hanwha Aerospace global business units, Defence stakeholders, industry partners, and government representatives to identify opportunities, drive capture activities, and position HDA for future success.
Key Responsibilities
Provide leadership and direction across Strategy and Business Development initiatives, driving business growth, market positioning, and the identification, assessment, and pursuit of domestic and international opportunities that support HDA's strategic objectives and future growth priorities.
Lead the development, implementation, and ongoing review of HDA's corporate strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and Hanwha Aerospace's global strategic priorities.
Lead the Business Development & Strategy function, fostering a high-performing, collaborative, and accountable team culture.




Develop and manage a prioritised opportunity pipeline and oversee progression through approved governance and capture processes.
Build and maintain strong relationships with Defence, CASG, government agencies, industry partners, Hanwha global business units, and other key stakeholders.
Lead your team to analyse market trends, customer requirements, competitor activity, and industry developments to inform strategic decision‐making.
Identify and assess strategic partnerships, collaboration opportunities, capability development initiatives, and new avenues for business growth.
Drive cross‐functional alignment across Business Development, Government Relations, Communications, Commercial, Finance, Engineering, Programs, and Operations.
Provide strategic reporting, insights, and recommendations to executive leadership to support informed decision‐making and continuous improvement.
About You
You are a strategic leader with extensive experience in defence business development, corporate strategy, and growth initiatives. You bring a solid understanding of the defence sector and a track record of influencing complex stakeholders and delivering measurable business outcomes.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Business, Commerce, Economics, Engineering, Defence Studies, Strategy, International Relations, or a related discipline.
Postgraduate qualification or MBA in Business, Strategy, Finance, or a related field is highly desirable.
Experience




Significant leadership experience in business development, corporate strategy, capture management, and growth initiatives within the defence sector, government, or similarly complex environments.
Demonstrated success leading major pursuits, growth strategies, and opportunity capture activities that have delivered measurable business outcomes.
Prior military service or Defence‐related experience, particularly in capability development, acquisition, operational planning, force design, or strategic leadership roles, is highly desirable.
Proven ability to lead high‐performing teams, influence senior stakeholders, and operate effectively within multinational organisations aligned to global strategic objectives.
Key Skills & Attributes
Strategic mindset with advanced business acumen
Outstanding stakeholder engagement and relationship management capability.
Robust negotiation, influencing, and communication skills.
Excellent presentation and senior‐level reporting skills.
Advanced analytical and problem‐solving abilities.
Strong planning, governance, and execution capability.
Ability to thrive in a complex and evolving environment.
High levels of integrity, professionalism, and sound judgement.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants
must be Australian Citizens
and be eligible to obtain and maintain an
Australian Government Security Clearance (minimum NV1 level).
Why Join Hanwha Defence Australia?
At Hanwha Defence Australia, you will have the opportunity to contribute to nationally significant defence programs while working within a global organisation committed to innovation, capability development, and long‐term growth. We offer a collaborative culture, meaningful work, and the opportunity to help shape Australia's future defence capability.
Ready to make an impact?
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📌 Head Of Business Development And Strategy (Melbourne)
🏢 Hanwha Defence Australia
📍 Melbourne