Program Manager - Automation and AI

Optus is an Australian telecommunications company, delivering more than 11 million services to our customers every day across mobile, broadband and digital solutions.

As the Program Manager – AI & Automation, you will be responsible for leading the strategy, development, and deployment of AI and automation initiatives across the Transport and IP Networks Delivery organisation. The role is focused on driving transformational programs that improve operational efficiency, enhance delivery performance, reduce costs, and accelerate decision-making through intelligent automation, data-driven insights, and emerging technologies.

Working collaboratively with Engineering, Delivery, Operations, Technology, Data, Digital, and vendor partners, you will identify and implement opportunities to automate network delivery processes, streamline workflows, optimise resource planning, and introduce AI-enabled solutions that support Optus’ strategic objectives.

As a key driver of innovation and continuous improvement, you will combine strong program leadership, business transformation expertise, change management capability, and stakeholder engagement skills to deliver measurable business outcomes and create lasting value through the adoption of AI and automation technologies.

Your day to day will consist of

• Lead the adoption and implementation of AI-enabled solutions, including predictive analytics, intelligent reporting, and Generative AI capabilities, to improve decision-making, forecasting, and operational efficiency.
• Manage and Coordinate with Technology, Data & Analytics suppliers, and internal Engineering teams to develop and embed automation and AI solutions that streamline workflows, optimise resource utilisation, and improve program performance.
• Drive continuous improvement through the evaluation and deployment of emerging AI and automation technologies, ensuring measurable business benefits and alignment with strategic objectives.
• Lead planning and prioritisation of programs aligned to the Annual Operating Plan (AOP), including coordinating engineering and customer order delivery.
• Manage CAPEX/OPEX budgets, financial forecasting, inventory, and material availability to ensure on-time project execution.
• Track and report on program progress, resources, risks, and financial performance, ensuring alignment with timelines, budgets, and KPIs.
• Drive stakeholder engagement across internal teams and external partners to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to WHS and quality standards.
• Oversee end-to-end project execution by managing dependencies, onboarding new technologies, handling escalations, and ensuring adherence to Optus standards and delivery processes.
• Drive operational and financial performance by managing contract changes, forecasts, reporting, resource planning, and improving delivery efficiency, cost, and accountability.

What makes you perfect for the role

• Degree qualified in Engineering, Technology, Computer Science, Data Analytics, Information Systems, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years' experience leading large-scale technology, automation, digital transformation, or telecommunications programs within complex environments.
• Demonstrated experience delivering automation, digital transformation, process optimisation, or AI-enabled initiatives within complex operational or technology environments.
• Experience leveraging data analytics, automation platforms, workflow tools, or Generative AI solutions to improve business performance, operational efficiency, and customer outcomes.
• Proven track record leading automation or AI/ML initiatives — including network orchestration, intelligent fault management, predictive analytics, workflow automation frameworks (RPA, model-driven networking, closed-loop automation) and data-driven delivery methodologies in a telco or large-scale infrastructure environment.
• Strong understanding of emerging AI, automation, and digital technologies, with the ability to identify opportunities and translate them into practical business solutions.
• Experience and knowledge of transport network operations (Mobile, Fixed, Core, Enterprise) combined with a strong understanding of how AI/ML and automation technologies are reshaping network management and delivery.
• Proven expertise in leading procurement, major tenders, and contract management for engineering services and solutions.
• Strong background in transformation programs, commercial management, and driving strategic initiatives using industry insights.
• Demonstrated leadership capability managing teams, leaders, and offshore resources, with strong stakeholder engagement skills.
• High-level program management, problem-solving, and commercial acumen, supported by certified project management qualifications.
• Strong personal and professional attributes including adaptability, customer focus, integrity, teamwork, and solid understanding of regulatory, WHS, and environmental standards.

What’s in it for you?

• Competitive remuneration and employee discounts. Make life easier (and more affordable) with $80 monthly credit and 25% off Optus products and unique shopping discounts with our retail partners.
• Competitive leave policies, including additional 'Connected’ days to focus on culture, family, health, community, or whatever’s important to you.
• We support growing families with inclusive, carer-neutral paid Parental Leave of up to 16 weeks.
• Build meaningful connections through employee-led networks and diversity initiatives including Culture Connect, Elevate Women, Disability Network and Express Yourself (LGBTQIA+).
• Put your wellbeing first with free access to counselling and support services, 24/7 — in-person, by phone, SMS, or video.

At Optus, we are strengthened by others and that means valuing diversity and saying ‘yes’ to embracing individual differences. We are committed to ensuring that our application process provides an equal employment opportunity to all job seekers, including individuals from diverse gender, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, individuals with a disability, individuals identifying as being part of the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals who may have served in the armed forces or who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. We also want to do our best to make our recruitment process inclusive. If you require any adjustments or accessibility support to participate fairly and equitably in the recruitment process, please email AccessibleRecruitment@optus.com.au or call 1800 309 170. We're here to help.

For more information on Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at Optus, please visit https://www.optus.com.au/about/inclusion-diversity