Head of Security Governance & Assurance in AUSTRALIA

ASC is Australia’s submarine company. We built the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins Class submarines, sustain them, and are now delivering their Life of Type Extension to increase the boats’ service lives. We have also been selected by the Australian Government to sustain and jointly build the nation’s nuclear-powered submarines - the largest and most complex industrial undertaking in Australia’s history.

Our work is interesting and meaningful, contributing directly to Australia’s national security. We offer rewarding roles that provide the opportunity to grow your career, and the flexibility to balance life and work. A career at ASC is like no other, delivering a deeper purpose we can all be proud of.

About the Opportunity

Reporting to the General Manager Security, the Head of Security Governance and Assurance is responsible for providing security governance and assurance guardrails across the whole organisation. They will establish security policies, processes and audit plans, as well as conducting or supporting internal and external audits. They will manage the Security Governance & Assurance team and lead strategic oversight, assurance planning, and regulatory engagement.

Acting as an internal regulator, they will ensure compliance with security legislation, standards, and internal policy frameworks in an everchanging security landscape. They will not only manage compliance against these frameworks but also be proactive in identifying vulnerabilities and opportunities for contintual improvement. This role will be critical in helping to secure against our nuclear ambitions.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Security Compliance and Assurance function, including oversight of internal audits, regulatory reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Act as the internal security regulator, ensuring compliance with DISP, DSPF, and other statutory and contractual obligations.
• Develop and maintain enterprise-wide security governance frameworks, policies, and procedures.
• Oversee the delivery of security assurance programs, including red teaming, vulnerability assessments, and compliance audits.
• Liaise with Defence, DISP, and other regulatory bodies to ensure alignment and readiness for audits and inspections.
• Provide strategic leadership to a multidisciplinary team covering governance, insider threat, audit, and training/change management.
• Drive a culture of proactive compliance and continuous improvement across the security function.
• Collaborate with IT, Legal, Risk, and People & Culture to ensure integrated compliance and assurance practices.
  

About you

Deeply knowledgeable of cybersecurity principles, you will help to influence the operations of the IT organisation and systems at ASC. You’re a proven leader with experience working within large complex organisations where security and compliance has been paramount, and you bring a strategic lens to future planning across longer-term issues and opportunities to ensure ongoing business success. Your ability to build and maintain strong stakeholder engagement will support you to establish working relationships with external agencies such as Department of Home affairs, ASD, ASIO, ASA and any emerging Nuclear Regulators.

Eligibility

This role requires a current National Police Clearance and an Australian Defence Security Clearance to a NV1 level. Your eligibility for this role is dependent on you obtaining and maintaining such clearance.

Whilst ASC will accept all applications for this role, as this role requires an ability to access protected US defence technology, applicants holding nationality of certain foreign countries will not be eligible.

To check your eligibility please visit the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency website.

Benefits

• Unique and challenging work with a deeper purpose.
• Flexibility over how, when and where you work for the best work/life balance.
• Up to 10 days additional leave every year so you can rest and recharge.
• Generous parental leave so you can give your family the focus it deserves.
• Subsidised childcare to ease the financial pressure on your family.
• Health and wellbeing initiatives so you can perform at your best at work.
• Professional development opportunities to advance your career.
• A diverse and supportive environment where you can thrive.
• Discounts and exclusive offers from leading Australian brands to help you save.
• Relocation support for you and your family, whether you’re from interstate or overseas.
  

Perth, Western Australia (WA) offers an unparalleled lifestyle with open spaces, pristine beaches, and a vibrant culture. As a growing defence industry hub, WA provides exciting career opportunities in advanced manufacturing. Known for its laid-back, outdoor-focused way of life, Perth blends work-life balance perfectly. Enjoy WA's stunning landscapes, thriving food and wine scene, and a family-friendly environment with room to grow.

About ASC

Established in 1985, ASC’s 2500-plus staff offer a depth of submarine design, project management, supply chain, construction and engineering experience and expertise that is unparalleled in Australia’s defence industry. The company’s work on Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine build and the Collins Class Life of Type Extension takes place in Osborne, South Australia, with sustainment shared across Osborne and Henderson, Western Australia. ASC also plays a leading role in training Royal Australian Navy submariners.

Early applications are encouraged as shortlisting may commence immediately. Applicant enquiries can be directed to careers@asc.com.au

By applying to ASC, you agree to undergo workforce screening activities including, but not limited to: reference checks, a national police check, verification of working rights and qualifications, provision of 10 year address history, and a role-based, pre-employment medical assessment.

We value the unique contributions of all ASC employees. To ensure our products and culture reflect diverse perspectives and experiences, we strive to create an inclusive environment free from discrimination based on race, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability. Please note that while we accept all applications, certain roles may have specific requirements that could limit eligibility based on national origin. Your information will be kept confidential in line with EEO guidelines.

For the best experience, we can provide accommodations or adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process. Please inform our Recruitment team during your conversation with them.