Overview
Join to apply for the Director - Operations role at MDA Space.
Building the space between proven and possible, MDA Space is a trusted mission partner to the global space industry. A robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence pioneer with a 55-year+ story of world firsts and more than 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, and space exploration and infrastructure. The MDA Space team of more than 3,800 space experts in Canada, the US and the UK has the knowledge and know-how to turn an audacious customer vision into an achievable mission – bringing to bear a one-of-a-kind mix of experience, engineering excellence and wide-eyed wonder that’s been in our DNA since day one. For those who dream big and push boundaries on the ground and in the stars to change the world for the better, we’ll take you there. For more information, visit www.mda.space.
We’re on the hunt for a Director of Operations to support our UK operations.
The UK team delivers Geointelligence, Robotics & Space Operations, and Satellite Systems capabilities to European-based customers, and specializes in the development of advanced space sensors for exploration missions as well as space-based communication technology. As our presence grows overseas, so does our need for ambitious team players to help us advance our place in the Universe and beyond.
Role
We are seeking a Director of Operations who will ensure the smooth and effective management and delivery of all UK Operations activities as we rapidly transition, configure and scale from a low-volume, highly labour-intensive production enterprise to become a ~£100m+ revenue, increasingly automated, volume manufacturing space business in the coming years. Reporting to the Head of Operation of MDA Space UK, the Director of Operations will be responsible for the Facilities, IT/IM, Cyber, Purchasing, Health & Safety and Security functions - ensuring alignment with MDA Space corporate guidelines and initiatives - with the objective of supporting the execution of our Project, Engineering, Technology, Quality, Assembly Integration and Test, New Business, HR and Finance deliverables.
Key Responsibilities
* Operational Excellence – In concert with the UK functions, corporate functions and where necessary the business areas, generate the detailed strategy and formalised processes to develop efficient and scalable capabilities that support the growth of the business, particularly related to
* Production for constellations – advanced manufacturing, operations capabilities, capacity and teams to successfully deliver space flight products that enable Satellite Systems’ delivery of two MDA Aurora satellites a day
* Data Management – strategic and systematic approach to protecting critical data while making access to correct and timely information to enable fast, data-driven business decisions to support growth
* Lab and Cleanroom management – Ensure suitable facilities are available in-line with strategy and capacity needs, including environmental test facilities, equipment calibration and coordination with equipment manufacturers, quality control measures, cleanroom and laboratory inventories, procurement of equipment and consumables, maintenance and control, environmental monitoring and stores management
* Stores/Shipping/Receiving Management – Manage storerooms, stock levels, area access restrictions, traceability, environmental conditions and security of materials and goods; receive incoming deliveries with quality checks; stage and kit required build parts; organize stock and complete regular inventory audits
* Purchasing Leadership – Oversee purchasing of raw materials and components for production (EEE parts), ensure timely delivery, cost optimization, quality standards and supplier relationships; develop procurement strategies; identify cost-saving opportunities
* IT Infrastructure, Systems And Tools Management – Manage and maintain the company's IT infrastructure, including network systems, servers, telecommunications, and security systems in alignment with corporate requirements
o Ensure an appropriate balance of in-house, corporate and 3rd Party IT service provision to meet business needs
o Oversee IT hardware, software and tools procurement, deployment, and upgrades
o Monitor network performance and troubleshoot IT issues
o Ensure data security and compliance with relevant IT and compliance regulations
* Cybersecurity – Developing, implementing, and managing an organisation's cybersecurity strategies to protect IT systems, networks, and data from cyber threats, ensuring compliance with regulations and MDA Corporate Policy.
o Develop and implement comprehensive cybersecurity policies, standards, and procedures
o Stay abreast of emerging cyber threats and vulnerabilities, and adapt security strategies accordingly
o Conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities and threats
o Develop and implement risk mitigation plans
o Monitor and analyse security incidents and vulnerabilities, taking appropriate action
o Oversee the day-to-day operations of security systems, including network monitoring and intrusion detection
o Coordinate incident response efforts in the event of security breaches
o Work with other departments to ensure security policies are followed
o Recommend and select security technologies and tools to enhance security posture
o Develop and deliver security awareness training programs for employees
o Promote a security-conscious culture within the organisation
o Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, industry standards, and internal policies
o Conduct regular security audits
* Facility Maintenance And Operations – Manage the day-to-day operations of the four MDA Space UK locations in Harwell, Stevenage and Manchester (offices, labs, cleanrooms, Stores, test facilities, test equipment), including building maintenance, repairs, and preventative maintenance schedules
o Oversee vendor relationships for maintenance and utility contracts, ensuring timely and quality service delivery
o Monitor building systems like HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety systems, addressing issues promptly
o Coordinate facility strategy, upgrades, renovations, and capital projects
* Health and Safety – Maintaining a safe working environment for all employees
o Oversee and implement all aspects of workplace health and safety, including those related to lab, cleanroom, manufacturing and laser safety
o Ensure compliance with all local building codes, safety regulations, and environmental standards
o Conduct regular safety inspections and implement preventive measures to maintain a safe working environment
o Manage emergency response procedures and coordinate with relevant stakeholders in case of incidents
o Identify potential hazards
o Conduct risk assessments
o Develop safety policies
o Provide employee training in collaboration with HR
o Investigate incidents, accidents and near misses
o Ensure compliance with relevant health and safety legislation
* Budget Management – Develop and manage the Operations budget, tracking expenditures and identifying cost-saving opportunities
* Team management – Lead and supervise a team of IT, Cyber, Facilities, Procurement, Health & Safety personnel
Required Qualifications, Skills And Experience
* Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field
* Extensive and proven experience in managing multi-site facilities operations, IT and Production Infrastructure at scale - £50m+ size of business, ideally in a leadership role
* Experience of scaling production in high-tech commercial environments
* Strong understanding of building systems, maintenance practices, and safety regulations
* Proficiency in IT network management, hardware troubleshooting, and security protocols
* Excellent budget management and financial planning skills
* Leadership and motivation skills to manage and develop a team of technicians, engineers and professionals
* Strong communication, stakeholder management, and interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse and key stakeholders across multi-national teams as well as with external parties
* Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
* Leadership skills to motivate and develop teams
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
* Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools
* Willing and able to travel to, and be present in all four offices on a regular basis
* Willing and able to travel to 3rd party locations as required to execute the responsibilities of the role
* Willing and able to travel to international offices/sites from time to time
* A role model for the MDA Space values
Comments / Special Considerations
We are required to conduct a BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) screening in which we will check your:
* Right to work: To confirm that you are entitled to take up the position as well as check your nationality and immigration status
* Identity: Full ID check
* Criminal records: Basic Disclosure
* Employment history check: Confirmation of past three years of employment (minimum) history/activity
* Reference checks
Benefits
MDA Space provides competitive compensation and benefits packages for its employees at all locations. As a team member of MDA, you and your qualified dependents are eligible to participate in a benefit plan that ensures a comprehensive level of protection through competitive health care including; private healthcare, disability income protection, life insurance, pension plan; and an employee assistance program. We also have a Hybrid work model in place, for a better work/life balance.
Equal Opportunity
MDA Space is an equal opportunity employer prizing diversity and inclusion. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity. If you require assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please feel free to notify us.
Accommodations
MDA Space is proud to provide accommodation(s) during the recruitment process. Should you require any accommodations, please indicate this on your application/cover letter and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs.
Job Details
* Seniority level: Director
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: Management and Manufacturing
* Industries: Defense and Space Manufacturing
#J-18808-Ljbffr