Jim McDowell, Australia

Jim McDowell stands among Australia's most accomplished defence executives, with over 30 years steering major industry transformations across four continents. His career spans the private sector's largest defence contractors and Australia's most senior government roles, establishing him as a leading authority on naval shipbuilding and defence procurement.

McDowell recently retired as Deputy Secretary Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment at the Department of Defence in April 2025, capping a distinguished public service career. His private sector leadership includes a transformative decade as CEO of BAE Systems Australia (2001-2011), where he built the company into Australia's largest defence firm with over 6,500 employees and AUD $1.7 billion in annual revenue.

Originally from Belfast, McDowell is a Warwick University law graduate who began his career with Bombardier Shorts before expanding across Asia and the Middle East. His public sector contributions include leading South Australia's Department of the Premier and Cabinet, serving as CEO of Nova Systems, and holding the chancellorship of the University of South Australia.