Governments, institutions and companies rely on Thales Alenia Space to design, operate and deliver satellite-based systems that help them position and connect anyone or anything, everywhere, help observe our planet, help optimize the use of our planet's – and our solar system’s – resources. Thales Alenia Space believes in space as humankind’s new horizon, which will enable to build a better, more sustainable life on Earth.
We’re recruiting for a Procurement Manager – Mechanical Equipment (Propulsion Systems) to join our growing team at Harwell Campus, one of the UK’s leading innovation hubs for space and technology.
In this role, you’ll take ownership of supplier sourcing and tendering activities for propulsion systems and mechanical equipment, driving procurement strategies that support mission-critical R&D and production programmes. You’ll collaborate with business-winning teams, negotiate complex contracts, and help shape supplier partnerships across our global network.
Key Responsibilities
* Drive supplier tendering and negotiation processes (subcontracts, RFQs, ITTs, collaborative agreements).
* Lead procurement planning aligned with project and commercial strategy.
* Conduct bid evaluations, supplier proposal analysis, and selection recommendations.
* Collaborate with Legal and Contracts functions on complex agreements.
* Support Bid and Project Managers and represent Procurement in customer or internal meetings.
* Interface with international Thales procurement networks to align policies and ensure compliance.
Candidate Profile
* Experience: Proven experience in Procurement or Contracts Management within Aerospace, Defence, or Space sectors.
* Skills: Strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, supplier management, understanding of export controls and trade compliance.
* Education: Degree in Business, Law, or equivalent; professional accreditations like CIPS or IACCM preferred.
* Attributes: Proactive, detail-oriented, adaptable under pressure, and collaborative. Willingness to travel internationally.
Location
* Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire — a key UK hub for space innovation.
Security Clearance Requirement
Due to the nature of the work that we do at Thales, many of our roles are subject to security restrictions. This role requires Security Clearance (SC). It would be advantageous if currently held, however, if not currently held, it is a requirement that the successful applicant undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance prior to commencing employment. Please visit the UKSV website for further guidance.
To be eligible for full SC, you generally need to have resided in the UK for the last 5 years. In some circumstances, a minimum of 3 years’ residence in the UK over the last 5 years may be accepted, with additional overseas checks.
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