Manager, Defence and National Security Compliance

Job Description:

• Based in the Research and Innovation Portfolio at the City and Mawson Lakes Campuses
• Full-time continuing position
• Salary Range: $132,705 - $141,974 per annum (plus 17% superannuation)

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive.

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Work that matters

In this role, you will lead the delivery of robust compliance frameworks and processes to support Adelaide University’s obligations in defence and national security. You will oversee risk management systems to identify, assess, and manage security risks and regulatory requirements, ensuring a proactive and structured approach to compliance.

You will build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support compliance (foreign compliance obligations, export controls and security objectives), while developing and delivering targeted training and resources to promote a security-aware culture. The role also focuses on continuous improvement, driving the ongoing review and enhancement of compliance processes, systems, and reporting to ensure alignment with Defence Industry Security Program requirements and University Foreign Interference Taskforce Guidelines.

Curious to learn more? Explore the full role description below to discover more about this opportunity.

The team

Reporting to the Associate Director, Defence and National Security Compliance, this role sits within the Space, Defence and National Security team in the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research and Innovation). The team operates in a fast-paced and high-demand environment, supporting critical compliance and security functions across the organisation.

Visit the AU website to learn more about the Research and Innovation Portfolio.

Our people

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.

This role is perfect for someone who is a people-oriented professional who thrives on engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders and building strong, effective relationships. You will be an excellent communicator, confident in working across all areas of the organisation and externally, with the ability to influence and provide clear, trusted advice.

This role suits someone who enjoys working with a high level of autonomy in a complex and fast-paced environment. You will be adaptable and resilient, capable of managing competing priorities and multiple activities at once, while maintaining attention to detail. If you are someone who enjoys variety, can handle pressure, and values no two days being the same, this role will offer a rewarding and dynamic opportunity.

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience:

• Qualification in Security Risk Management and extensive relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of experience and education/training
• Demonstrated analytical, assessment and problem-solving skills with the ability to make informed risk recommendations.
• Experience in defence and security management and administration
• Proven ability to interpret regulatory policies, principles, and guidelines and provide strategic advice
• Experience developing and implementing policies and procedures in a compliance context
• Strong organisational and project management skills, including the ability to use initiative, exercise sound judgement, meet deadlines, and manage competing priorities
• Experience communicating effectively with internal and external stakeholders, and maintaining confidentiality while managing sensitive information and record systems

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Launch your future with Adelaide University now

Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload:

• your current CV
• a cover letter that tells us why you’re excited about the role

The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address.

Submit your application by 11:30pm Tuesday 28 April 2026

For further information about this opportunity, please contact (quoting reference number 492881):

Jessica De Lorenzo
Team Lead, Talent Acquisitions
+61 8 8302 1700 | careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au

The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.

Applications are welcomed from Australian citizens, residing in Australia only.

Appointment is subject to a Personnel Security Clearance at NEGATIVE VETTING LEVEL 1 or 2 being obtained and maintained