Traci-Ann Byrnes is currently the First Assistant Secretary Program Performance in the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Defence. In this role, she leads the implementation of the First Principles reform to provide the enabling functions supporting the delivery of capability via matrix management. Traci-Ann has extensive experience in leading complex change and reform. With recent experience driving customer-centric service delivery at the Department of Human Services to transformational change of the disposal of Specialist Military Equipment for the Australian Defence Force, Traci has worked across a range of environments to deliver sustainable reform. Traci-Ann delivered the inaugural Australian Military Sales Catalogue in support of international sales and disposals. She has extensive experience in international engagement, leading the team in CASG and multiple international engagements, sales and disposals to foreign entities.
Since joining the Department of Defence in 1994 as an accounting graduate, Traci-Ann has held business finance management positions in major projects procuring a range of capabilities including night vision equipment, major ships, Lead-In Fighter and FA-18 upgrades.
Traci-Ann had the opportunity to spend 18 months on exchange with the USA Department of Defense. During her time with the Defense Contract Management Agency in the Pentagon, Traci-Ann worked with over 45 companies on their performance management systems and developed and delivered training for US DoD staff. Traci-Ann received a Commendation for Outstanding Performance from the Under Secretary of Defense. Traci-Ann returned and worked with Australian industry to create the Australian Standard for Earned Value and introduce the new standards, policy and guidance for the Defence. Between October 2010 and May 2013, Traci-Ann undertook the role of Director General Defence Asset and Inventory Management leading the Branch responsible for providing the accounting and assurance for $44billion worth of Assets and Inventory. A highlight during this role was establishing controls and assurance framework and the removal of all audit findings.
In March 2013, Traci-Ann commenced implementing financial shared services as the Director General Business Services and Reform, leading and managing the transition of over 450 finance staff into a shared service provision model and implementing sustainable change and reforms to support the provision of finance services to the Defence Materiel Organisation.
Traci-Ann holds a Master of Business (Complex Project Management), an accounting degree and post graduate qualifications in Public Policy, Management and Strategic Procurement.
Born and raised in Broken Hill, Traci-Ann has two girls, Sophie and Hayley. Her recreational interests include reading; walking, bike-riding and watching her girls play tennis and basketball.
