Chris Maclean
Gaythorne,QLD
Summary
TSPV cleared Army Signals Officer and experienced leader, specialising in space operations, electronic warfare and secure communications networks. Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and lead multidisciplinary teams in high-tempo environments. Proven track record in driving strategic initiatives, enhancing operational effectiveness and strengthening Defence and coalition stakeholder relationships. Duel military and commercial career combining Defence technical expertise with large-scale civilian project management. Extensive international exposure and cross-cultural adaptability.
Skills
- Security and Defense Expertise – proven experience operating in highly classified environments, with a deep understanding of Defense processes and operational requirements
- TSPV Cleared – current top secret positive vetting clearance including psychological assessment
- Space Operations Proficiency – Skilled in space effects integration, SDA, threats analysis and joint/coalition space operations
- Secure Communications Systems – strong knowledge of protected networks, military communications and secure information systems
- Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations – Experienced in EW, spectrum management and integration of EMS effects
- Multilingual (English, French, German) – High-level trilingual communication enhancing liaison with international partners
- Leadership & Team Management – Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams in high-pressure operational environments
- Mentoring & Coaching – Experienced in developing personnel and enhancing team performance
- Stakeholder & Relationship Building – Strong ability to influence, collaborate and maintain trusted relationships across diverse networks
- Military Operations Planning – Proficient in Joint planning, staff processes and integrating specialist effects into operations
- Risk Assessment & Management – Competent in identifying, assessing and mitigating operational and organisational risks
- Intelligence Integration – Skilled in fusing multi-source intelligence to support operational decision-making
- Analytical Problem Solving – Strong analytical mindset with proven ability to resolve complex operational challenges
- Advanced Critical Thinking – Ability to assess complex issues, synthesise information and deliver actionable recommendations
Work History
Captain (O3) - Space Operations
Space Command, Australian Army
Canberra, ACT
10.2020 - Current
- Royal Australian Signals Corps officer - planning and execution of ADF space operations and exercises, integrating joint and coalition space capabilities.
- Provide operational space support to Commanders, including space domain awareness, orbital analysis, and integration of space effects.
- Support space concept development, lessons analysis, and capability integration across the ADF in emerging space capabilities and doctrine/policy.
- Develop and deliver briefings, staff estimates, and targeting inputs to senior leadership, ensuring space considerations are embedded in operational design.
- Coordinate with allies and coalition partners to support combined space operations and enhance interoperability.
- Conduct space threat analysis and contribute to the development of space operations and contingency planning.
- Integrated space intelligence and secure data flows into operational networks, supporting joint warfighting effectiveness.
- Future space training curriculum development.
Operations Manager
GCD Exhibitions
Brisbane, QLD
09.2016 - 10.2020
- Managed daily operations for large-scale exhibition events and ca. 50 staff.
- Responsible for nationwide projects for major clients including Commonwealth Bank, Bunnings, Sony PlayStation.
- Managed design, construction, logistics, contracts, procurement, client management and stakeholder engagement across all business activities.
- Demonstrated transferable skills in project management, compliance, and high-value stakeholder liaison.
Project Manager
Global Customs / Formula 1 Teams
Worldwide, based in Germany
03.2015 - 09.2016
- Delivered international Formula 1 Paddock Club solutions for Mercedes AMG, Williams and Red Bull F1 teams.
- Project management of high-profile, complex international projects.
- Developed detailed project timelines for multiple concurrent events across various international locations.
- Facilitated contract negotiations and procurement processes to ensure timely acquisition of resources.
QLD State Operations Manager
MSS Security
Brisbane, QLD
03.2014 - 03.2015
- Directed operations for a $42M business portfolio with 940 personnel under management.
- Secured major contract wins (ConocoPhillips LNG, Curtis Island) through strategic tendering.
- Accountable for operations, financial performance, recruitment, HSE compliance, and stakeholder management.
Operations Manager
Brisbane Showgrounds
Brisbane, QLD
08.2012 - 03.2014
- Operational lead for large-scale events (Royal Queensland Show, concerts, exhibitions, sporting events).
- Managed 300+ staff, departmental budgets, and WHS compliance.
- Played key role in commissioning and operationalising a new convention centre.
Education
Master of Space Operations -
01-2026
Officer Commission & Diploma of Military Leadership -
07-2022
Languages
German
Native/ Bilingual
French
Professional
Timeline
Captain (O3) - Space Operations - Space Command, Australian Army
10.2020 - Current
Operations Manager - GCD Exhibitions
09.2016 - 10.2020
Project Manager - Global Customs / Formula 1 Teams
03.2015 - 09.2016
QLD State Operations Manager - MSS Security
03.2014 - 03.2015
Operations Manager - Brisbane Showgrounds
08.2012 - 03.2014
UNSW Canberra - Master of Space Operations,
Royal Military College - Officer Commission & Diploma of Military Leadership,