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.
Role
We are seeking a Director of Operations to support our UK operations. MDA Space’s international footprint in the UK creates opportunities to work with some of the most exciting space industrial players in the country. Delivering all three business area capabilities in Geointelligence, Robotics & Space Operations, and Satellite Systems, our UK team provides support to our European-based customers while specializing 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 new ambitious team players to help us advance our place in the Universe and beyond.
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, including:
o Production for constellations: advanced manufacturing, operations capabilities, capacity and teams to deliver space flight products enabling Satellite Systems’ delivery of two MDA Aurora satellites a day
o Data Management: strategic approach to protecting critical data while enabling access to correct and timely information to enable fast, data-driven decisions
* Lab and Cleanroom management - Ensure suitable facilities are available in line with strategy and capacity needs, including environmental test facilities; ensure appropriate equipment calibration and coordination with equipment manufacturers; implement quality control measures; maintain cleanroom and laboratory inventories; procurement of equipment and consumables; cleanroom and laboratory maintenance and control; environmental monitoring; stores management
* Stores/Shipping/Receiving Management - Manage storerooms, stock levels, area access restrictions, traceability, environmental conditions and security of all materials and goods; oversee receipt of incoming deliveries and perform quality checks on all received goods; stage and kit required build parts for a range of technical products; organize, check and quantify existing stock and escalate purchasing needs; complete regular inventory audits; maintain stores documentation
* Purchasing Leadership - Oversee purchasing of raw materials and components, including EEE parts, for production; develop and implement procurement strategies; identify cost-saving opportunities; manage supplier relationships and address quality issues
* IT Infrastructure, Systems And Tools Management - Manage and maintain the company\'s IT infrastructure, including network systems, servers, telecommunications, and security systems; balance in-house, corporate and third-party IT provision; oversee hardware, software and tools procurement, deployment and upgrades; monitor network performance and security
* Cybersecurity - Develop and implement cybersecurity policies, stay aware of threats, conduct risk assessments, coordinate incident response, ensure compliance with regulations and internal policies
* Facility Maintenance And Operations - Manage day-to-day operations of four UK locations (offices, labs, cleanrooms, Stores, test facilities, test equipment); oversee maintenance contracts; monitor building systems; coordinate upgrades and capital projects
* Health and Safety - Oversee workplace safety across labs, cleanrooms, manufacturing and laser safety; ensure regulatory compliance; conduct inspections and training; manage emergency procedures and incident investigations
* Budget Management - Develop and manage the Operations budget; identify cost-saving opportunities; negotiate maintenance and IT contracts
* Team management - Lead and supervise a multidisciplinary team (IT, Cyber, Facilities, Procurement, Health & Safety); assign tasks, monitor performance and provide development opportunities
Qualifications
* Bachelor\'s degree (or equivalent) in Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field
* Extensive, proven experience in managing multi-site facilities operations, IT and production infrastructure at scale (£50m+ 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 people management skills to lead a team of technicians, engineers and professionals
* Strong communication, stakeholder management and interpersonal skills to collaborate across multinational teams and external partners
* Analytical and problem-solving skills
* Willingness and ability to travel to all four offices regularly and to 3rd party sites as needed
* Willing to travel to international offices/sites from time to time
* Role model for MDA Space values
Benefits
MDA Space provides competitive compensation and benefits packages for its employees at all locations. Benefits include private healthcare, disability income protection, life insurance, pension plan, and an employee assistance program. We offer a Hybrid work model to support work-life balance.
Equal Opportunity and Accommodations
MDA Space is an equal opportunity employer prizing diversity and inclusion. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants with respect and dignity. If you require assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please notify us. We also provide accommodations during the recruitment process; please indicate your needs in your application/cover letter.
Additional notes
BPSS screening may be conducted; includes right to work, identity, criminal records, employment history, and references. This job posting may include locations and dates as part of internal postings.
Location: Manchester, England, United Kingdom
Posted: 6 days ago
#J-18808-Ljbffr