OREANDA-NEWS. Dr Watt brings extensive knowledge of Australia’s strategic challenges in Defence and Security, as well as an intrinsic understanding of Government at a Federal level. He has a career that spans nearly 20 years at the highest levels of public service, including as Secretary of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. He also served as the Secretary of the Department of Defence, and was Australia’s longest serving Finance Secretary.

Since leaving the public service in 2014, Dr Watt has taken up a number of Directorships, and currently holds Board roles with Citigroup, Smartgroup Corporation, O’Connell Street Associates, the Committee for Economic Development of Australia and the Grattan Institute where he is also the Chair of the Public Policy Committee. Dr Watt is also currently serving as the Chair of the National Innovation and Science Agenda Implementation Committee, as Chair of the Advisory Council for the University of Wollongong’s SMART Infrastructure Facility and is a Member of Male Champions of Change.

Glynn Phillips, Chief Executive of BAE Systems Australia said of the announcement: “Dr Watt’s depth of experience will help guide our Australian business as we consider the opportunities to support the Government meet its strategic defence challenges.”

Guy Griffiths, Group Managing Director of BAE Systems’ International Operating Group also commented: “Australia continues to be a key growth market for the Group. The appointment of Dr Watt will help improve our engagement with Government so that we can continue to play a leading role in helping protect the nation.”