Overview
Head of Manufacturing role at Thales – Crawley, United Kingdom.
Thales is a global technology leader in aerospace, transportation, defence, security and space. We offer opportunities for committed employees to learn and develop their careers, with flexibility to support diverse working patterns where possible.
Role
Lead and shape the manufacturing function at the Crawley site, focusing on low volume production of high complexity products. This role has a dual focus on customer satisfaction and the performance of the organisation. You will provide functional leadership of the full operational ecosystem, overseeing approximately 120 team members, and deploy the Industrial strategy with the required human, financial and physical resources for short, medium and long term goals.
Key tasks / Responsibilities
* Responsible for the industrial delivery (end to end) for the Business Domains at Crawley
* Guarantee the industrial/manufacturing engineering of new products (from the design phase) and the reliability and competitiveness of the technological solutions
* Ensure internal manufacturing meets quality, time and cost expectations by optimising inventory, supply, industrial solution, and WIP (work in progress) – responsible for the UPC (estimate, delivery, and improvement) of recurring products, post-PRR (Production Readiness Review) acceptance
* Play a key role in the introduction and management of change, and the development of a continuous improvement culture
* Ensure appropriate application of industrial toolsets (ERP, QMS, etc.) to contribute to effective deployment, maintenance and improvement of industrial processes
About You
We are seeking a hands-on Head of Manufacturing who can lead and inspire manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of driving operational excellence, continuous improvement and innovation within complex manufacturing environments. You will possess strong leadership to build and develop high-performing teams, align manufacturing strategies to business goals and deliver sustainable growth. Expertise in lean manufacturing and modern production methods is important, and experience managing large-scale production functions is essential. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills to collaborate across functions and with external partners.
Flexibility
Our health and well-being policy offers flexibility to support work patterns that suit your lifestyle, including part-time hours, job sharing, home working, or flexible start/finish times where possible.
Security & Vetting
This role will require SC Clearance. It is advantageous if already held; otherwise the successful applicant must obtain and maintain SC Clearance. Eligibility generally requires residency in the UK for the last 5 years (with possible exceptions). For full details on Baseline and Security Clearance, refer to UK government vetting guidance. Some vacancies may require full Security Clearance and additional evidence may be requested in line with Baseline Security requirements.
Inclusion and Recruitment
Thales is an equal opportunities employer and values diversity and inclusion. We provide reasonable adjustments to ensure accessibility during the recruitment process. For adjustments or questions about the process, contact Resourcing Ops (mid to senior roles) or the Early Careers Team (graduate and apprentice roles).
Company and Careers
Thales UK employs 80,000 people in 68 countries and supports a mobility policy that enables career development at home and abroad. We believe flexibility is a smarter way of working.
How to Apply / Miscellany
Great journeys start here — apply now. This posting may be part of a broader set of roles in multiple locations, with postings listed across the United Kingdom.
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