Bid Manager - Naval Combat Systems

About the role

Join Saab Australia as a Bid manager!

Drive Winning Strategies for Australia’s Future Naval Capabilities.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Bid Manager – Naval Combat System to lead complex and strategic bid responses across key maritime defence programs.

This role offers the opportunity to lead multi-disciplinary bid teams, working closely with Capture Managers, Engineers, Estimators, Commercial Leads, and Executives to shape and deliver compelling proposals that strengthen Saab’s contribution to national defence.

We work in a fast-paced, demanding, challenging as well as time sensitive environment; we’re diverse, global, resilient, adaptable and agile, therefore the ability to solve problems is critical.

This position also offers flexible working options and a 9 Day Fortnight.

The preferred location for this role is Adelaide, South Australia. However, we are open to considering candidates based in other locations across Australia.

The opportunity

As Bid Manager – Naval Combat System, you will be responsible for managing the end-to-end delivery of defence tender responses (RFI, RFQ, ROM, RFT) in accordance with Saab’s Win Business Process. Your mission will be to deliver compliant, competitive, and high-quality bids on time and within budget—maximising Saab’s ability to secure and deliver naval combat system programs.

Key responsibilities:

Lead and manage bids through all phases—from planning to submission—ensuring alignment with Saab’s strategic objectives and business processes.

Develop and manage bid plans and schedules, including estimating and managing bid budgets and allocating the right resources.

Establish, coordinate, and motivate cross-functional bid teams, fostering collaboration and high-performance culture.

Ensure full compliance with tender requirements (including ASDEFCON) and Saab governance frameworks.

Produce high-quality, persuasive bid documentation, incorporating technical, commercial, and cost inputs.

Facilitate key reviews, including Colour Team Reviews, Risk Reviews, Cost Reviews, and Executive Briefings.

Champion the bid win strategy, ensuring responses are tailored to customer priorities and competitive differentiators.

Support Capture Managers and Sales Leads through price approvals and strategy presentations.

Contribute to continuous improvement, collaborating with Saab’s Strategic Bid Centre and mentoring other bid team members.

About you

You are an experienced Bid Manager with deep knowledge of defence procurement and a passion for delivering high-impact, customer-focused proposals. You thrive in fast-paced, collaborative environments and excel at managing complexity, detail, and deadlines simultaneously.

Experience & Skills:

Demonstrated success in leading large, complex bids within the Defence industry, including end-to-end bid planning and delivery.

Proven experience managing bids in accordance with ASDEFCON tendering frameworks.

Previous experience with Saab’s Win Business Process or similar strategic bid methodologies (e.g. Shipley).

Sound understand of strategic bid methodologies (e.g. Shipley).

Project Management experience and/or bid writing expertise.

Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate cross-functional teams and engage stakeholders across all levels.

Highly proficient in cost estimation, scheduling, and resource planning.

Experience producing and reviewing complex tender, contractual, and project documentation.

Confident in customer-facing environments and able to present technical and commercial material clearly and persuasively.

Desirable:

Domain experience in naval systems or complex C4ISR environments.

Qualification:

Tertiary qualifications in Project Management, Business, Engineering, or a related discipline.

Shipley Managing Strategic Proposals or equivalent certification preferred.

Personal Attributes:

Strong sense of accountability, detail-oriented, and results-driven.

Exceptional communication skills—both written and verbal—with an ability to simplify complex ideas.

Flexible, collaborative, and able to navigate ambiguity and competing priorities.

Customer and outcome focused, with a hands-on approach to achieving excellence.

Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Embodies Saab’s values of Trust, Expertise, and Drive.

As Defence security clearance is required for this role, applicants must be Australian citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain an NV1 clearance.

About us

Saab Australia is a defence, security and cyber solutions provider, specialising in the development and integration of major defence and security systems. For over 30 years in Australia, we have built a reputation for delivering complex systems integration projects that provide proven and advanced capabilities to keep us ahead of today’s challenges.

From combat, communications, security and underwater systems, to mixed reality, cyber security and deployable health solutions, our extensive portfolio of products and services provide high-technology solutions for defence forces and civil industries across the globe.

Apply today to join our crew and deliver solutions with purpose.

Culture and benefits

We employ over 1000 Australians and are committed to fostering a culture of excellence and enriching the employee experience.

By joining Saab, you’ll be a part of a collaborative and supportive organisation, where your professional growth and work-life balance are emphasised. You’ll work within an innovative and vibrant workplace, while having the opportunity to develop a long-term, fulfilling career.

As a valued team member of Saab Australia, you’ll access a variety of perks and benefits to support you and your family including:

6 weeks paid leave each year

13.5% Superannuation

Free Income Protection Insurance

Flexible working options

Access to the Saab shares matching scheme

Access to MySaab; our online store offering everything from cash back at hundreds of stores to discounts from exclusive partners

For further information about a career at Saab, visit the page adjacent:

Applications

Click ‘Apply’ to submit your CV and cover letter in support of your application. Kindly observe that this is an ongoing recruitment process and in exceptional circumstances, the position might be filled before the closing date of the advertisement. We encourage applications as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

By submitting an application to Saab, you consent to undertaking workforce screening activities including, but not limited to: reference checks, Australian Federal Police check, verification of working rights and qualifications, sanctions screening and a pre-employment medical declaration.

Saab Australia is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to apply. We also welcome applications from individuals with culturally diverse backgrounds.

Saab Australia is a nationally recognised Veteran Employer of Choice and welcomes the interest of ex-service members, veterans and their families

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