Engineering Delivery Manager (WPM)

Base location: Cheadle / Templecombe, UK. We can offer a hybrid approach to office and remote working. We would expect 3 days per week as the standard days on Cheadle / Templecombe site.

Primary Purpose of Role: This key role is needed to maintain the delivery of a number of engineering work packages, ensuring they are completed on time, to budget, and of the required quality. The growth of the UWS business has resulted in further utilization of both Thales internal engineering capabilities, and also those external to Thales, in order to support our increasing number of deliverable projects. Therefore, the ideal candidate will be experienced in technical supplier management and will be capable of meeting the challenge as the liaison between internal engineering and project teams and external suppliers.

Key Responsibilities and Tasks:

• Work Package Management: Develop, manage, and track detailed engineering work packages (EWPs) to ensure successful execution. Ensure that work packages align with project timelines, scope, and budget. Coordinate cross-functional engineering teams, including Systems, Software, Hardware, Safety, Cyber Security, Algorithm Engineers, and Configuration Management, to ensure the timely delivery of each work package.
• Supplier Management: Act as the primary point of contact for external technical suppliers and subcontractors, managing the relationship and communication. Oversee the technical and performance aspects of supplier agreements, ensuring suppliers meet contractual obligations and quality standards. Evaluate and monitor supplier performance to ensure compliance with specifications, delivery schedules, and cost constraints. Collaborate with procurement and commercial teams to negotiate contract terms with suppliers.
• Technical Oversight: Provide technical oversight and guidance on the execution of work packages, ensuring they meet technical requirements and industry standards. Review and approve engineering documentation, drawings, and other deliverables from suppliers to ensure they meet quality and specification requirements. Assist with the resolution of technical issues that arise during the delivery of work packages, in collaboration with engineering and supplier teams.
• Risk and Issue Management: Proactively identify potential risks or issues within the work package scope and manage mitigation plans. Coordinate with suppliers and internal teams to address any delays or technical problems that could affect the overall project timeline or quality.
• Reporting and Documentation: Prepare regular progress reports and updates for internal stakeholders, including project managers and senior leadership. Maintain comprehensive documentation of work package execution, including technical and contractual details, milestones, and deliverables.
• Collaboration: Work closely with project management, engineering, and procurement teams to ensure alignment and smooth delivery of work packages. Facilitate meetings with internal teams and suppliers to ensure ongoing communication and coordination.

Experience and Skills:

• Experience in an engineering, project management, or related role, with experience in managing work packages in a technical supplier management capacity.
• Proven experience in managing relationships with external technical suppliers, contractors, or subcontractors.
• Experience in managing complex engineering tasks, including the delivery of technical work packages.

Skills & Competencies:

• An understanding of engineering principles, systems, and processes.
• Excellent project management skills, with experience using project management tools and software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera, etc.).
• Ability to manage multiple work streams and suppliers.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to identify and mitigate risks.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Evidence of strong collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.

Education and Qualifications:

• PMP (Project Management Professional) or similar project management certification is a plus.
• Certifications in supplier management or procurement are beneficial.
• Applicants must be eligible to obtain UK SC Level Security Clearance without restrictions and be UK national.

At Thales, we provide CAREERS and not only jobs. With Thales employing 80,000 employees in 68 countries, our mobility policy enables thousands of employees each year to develop their careers at home and abroad, in their existing areas of expertise or by branching out into new fields. Together we believe that embracing flexibility is a smarter way of working. Thales UK is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free recruitment process. We will provide reasonable adjustments and support to ensure neuro-diverse applicants or those with a disability or long-term condition can be their best during the recruitment process. To request an adjustment, if you need this job advert in an alternative format or if you have any questions about the recruitment process, please contact Resourcing Ops for mid to senior roles, or the Early Careers Team for graduate and apprentice roles. Great journeys start here, apply now!