Who We Are

Australia is bidding to host the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) in 2026, in partnership with the Pacific. If successful, this major global climate change conference will run for three weeks in November/December 2026 in an Australian city yet to be announced.

COPs are among the largest international gatherings in the world, bringing together 198 countries - parties to the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement - to address the impacts of climate change.

The COP31 Operations Division within DCCEEW is responsible for delivering all operational and logistical aspects of the event. The division consists of the Internal Operations Branch, Enabling Operations Branch, and Event Operations Branch, and will continue to grow as planning progresses.

Why Join Us?

A role with DCCEEW's COP31 Operations Division offers:

• The chance to contribute to a landmark Australian Government event of global significance.
• A respectful, inclusive, and safe workplace where you are supported to perform at your best.
• Attractive remuneration, including generous superannuation contributions and allowances (salary packages negotiable).
• Flexible work arrangements, including part-time, work from home, or remote options (subject to operational requirements).
• The opportunity to work alongside experienced leaders who will encourage and support your career growth.

About the Role

COP31 is a project- second in size only to the 2032 Olympics.

Over the next 12-18 months, there will be around 80 separate procurements, with values ranging into the hundreds of millions of dollars. These will cover a wide range of categories, including:

• Construction
• Venue selection and site build/fit-out
• Event management
• Accommodation
• ICT (e.g., systems worth up to $45 million)

Key Duties

• Lead and manage end-to-end strategic procurement processes across varied types, sizes, values, and methods.
• Provide timely and strategic advice to internal and external stakeholders through all stages of the procurement lifecycle - planning, market approach, evaluation, negotiation, contract execution, and ongoing management.
• Assist in preparing procurement documentation.
• Interpret, apply, and advise on legislation and frameworks including the Commonwealth Procurement Rules, Commonwealth Procurement Framework, Procurement Connected Policies, and the PGPA Act.
• Maintain current knowledge of relevant procurement legislation, policies, and procedures.
• Engage with and manage diverse stakeholder groups - internal, external, domestic, and international.
• Contribute to procurement process design, continuous improvement, and guidance materials.
• Work on both bespoke and standard procurements.
• Operate as a hands-on enabler and "boots on the ground" team member who can provide guidance and practical solutions.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking candidates who can demonstrate:

• Significant experience in high-value, complex Federal Government procurement.
• Familiarity with panels such as WOAG, People Panel, BuyICT, AFP.
• Expert knowledge of the PGPA Act.
• Strong stakeholder management skills in politically sensitive environments.
• Excellent communication skills.
• A proactive, hands-on approach with the ability to operate strategically and operationally.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and challenge traditional approaches.
• A "project management mindset" (formal PM qualifications not required).

Other Information

• Location: ACT preferred; remote options available
• Citizenship: Australian citizenship required; permanent residents considered if highly suitable.
• Security Clearance: Must hold, or be able to obtain and maintain, a Baseline clearance.
• Pre-employment checks: Includes National Police Check, referee checks, character clearance, qualification verification, and probation period.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

At Drake, we are committed to fostering diversity, inclusion, and equity. While our journey is ongoing, our shared goal is to create an environment where every individual is respected and valued. We are a community that recognises the strength of diversity.

Right to Work

The above position is open only to applicants who have a current right to work in Australia. Applicants who do not have a current right to work In Australia will unfortunately not be considered and are respectfully asked not to apply.