Speakers

Michael was appointed to First Assistant Secretary Industry Engagement in 2024, tasked with leading the implementation of the Defence Industry Development Strategy. Prior to commencing this role, Michael was Acting First Assistant Secretary Procurement and Contracting, responsible for procurement reform in response to the Defence Strategic Review. In this role one of the reform initiatives Michael led was the development and implementation of the Defence procurement and contracting assurance framework which aimed at improving CPR compliance and contracting performance. In 2022, Michael was also a co-author of the Recruitment and Retention Tiger Team Report. Under the direction of the Secretary and CDF, Michael established the team responsible for implementing ADF and APS Recruiting and Retention initiatives.

Michael joined the APS in 2009 and his previous career roles in Defence include Director Non-Materiel Procurement, Director of Indigenous Affairs, Acting Assistant Culture and People Development and Assistant Secretary Work Health Safety. Michael also undertook a secondment as the Senior Ministerial Adviser for Veterans’ Affairs to the Minister for Defence People and Veterans’. Prior to joining Defence Michael worked as a management consulting and a production manager in the metal work industry.