Risk Manager (Canberra)

This organisation sits at the centre of one of Australia’s significant national capability programs. It is an independent regulator within the Commonwealth portfolio, responsible for ensuring world‑class safety, security and regulatory integrity in a highly sensitive and complex operating environment. Established recently and undergoing rapid growth, the organisation plays a critical role in protecting the Australian public interest while working closely with domestic and international partners. Its mandate requires exceptionally high standards of governance, risk awareness and assurance, supported by a workforce that operates with maturity, discretion and a strong safety mindset. The Prospect An opportunity exists for an EL1 Risk Manager to join a small, highly trusted team at a pivotal stage of organisational growth. This role is business‑critical. The organisation is scaling quickly, operating in a complex regulatory and security context, and requires a senior risk practitioner who can bring structure, credibility and calm under pressure. You will have genuine influence, direct exposure to senior leadership, and the chance to shape how risk is understood, governed and embedded across a growing agency. The Role Reporting to a senior leader within a central governance / PMO function, you will be responsible for driving the organisation’s risk management capability.
- Designing, implementing and maintaining an enterprise‑level risk management framework and risk register
- Acting as the custodian of risk governance, providing clear, practical advice to senior executives
- Supporting leadership to understand risk exposure, risk appetite and organisational capability to manage risk
- Embedding a proactive, open and mature risk culture that encourages challenge, debate and independent thinking
- Identifying and managing strategic and workforce‑related risks in a rapidly growing organisation
- Developing policies, procedures and guidance that support sound decision‑making
- Engaging confidently with internal and external stakeholders, including in high‑pressure or high‑visibility contexts This role has no direct reports but carries significant influence and accountability. The Ideal Person You are a seasoned risk professional who is comfortable operating in sensitive, ambiguous and high‑stakes environments. You will bring
- Demonstrated experience leading or owning risk management functions in complex organisations
- The ability to work strategically while also delivering practical, fit‑for‑purpose risk solutions
- Strong judgement, resilience and the confidence to maintain credibility under pressure
- Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, including the ability to influence senior leaders
- A collaborative mindset and genuine commitment to building organisational capability Experience in regulated, operational, national security or safety‑critical environments will be highly regarded. Backgrounds in defence, maritime, aviation, infrastructure or other regulatory agencies are advantageous but not essential. NV1 or NV2 clearance is required (NV2 preferred) for this position. Salary / Rate
- $120k-$135k + 15.4% Super
- 12-month non‑ongoing contract + extension
- Available as a Section 26 transfer (permanent or temporary)
- Flexibility and WFH options available Apply on Kit Job: kitjobau.com/job/3rr8p5