At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead R&D teams in developing cutting-edge defence technologies for space, land, and maritime.
- Company: Join Airbus, a leader in aerospace innovation with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, profit share, flexible hours, and health support.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal growth and international mobility.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence technology while leading talented engineers.
- Qualifications: Experience in SATCOM, strong leadership skills, and knowledge of Agile methodologies.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
We are seeking a leader for a team of R&D technical engineers working on highly classified products for space, land, and maritime defence domains. The role includes leading two teams (Maritime terminals and Software Defined Radio (SDR)), ensuring project milestones, and supporting workforce planning.
Key Details
- Security Clearance: Eligibility to gain UK SC Security Clearance
- Travel: Some UK travel to Airbus sites and rare supplier visits
- Location: Portsmouth OR Stevenage (60% of your working week must be office based)
- Employment Type: Full time, Permanent
- Experience Level: Professional
- Job Family: Sub-system development
What’s in It for You
- Financial rewards: competitive salary, profit share, pension, share options, car leasing, parking, tax‑free tech scheme, discounted shopping
- Work‑life balance: 37‑hour week, flex hours, hybrid, up to 2 additional days per month TOIL; no core hours on Friday afternoons.
- Personal development: personalised plan, E‑learning, internal mobility including international opportunities
- Health & wellbeing: online GP, mental health support, Employee Assistance Programme, family health insurance, cycle‑to‑work, on‑site canteen, lunchtime pilates
- Family & caregiving: life assurance, enhanced pay for parental leave, adoption/ shared parental leave etc.
- Inclusive environment: wellbeing room, multi‑faith room, employee representative groups
About the Role
This high‑visibility key role supports a team of 30 R&D technical engineers split into two teams. The team works on the future of highly classified and technical products that will shape space, land, and maritime defence. The role requires a leader comfortable in a dynamic, agile R&D environment who protects project integrity and delivers on commitments.
Qualifications & Experience
- Domain knowledge in SATCOM / Telecoms / Ground segment or terminal design, or secure satellite communications (MILSATCom)
- Strong leadership focus on developing and championing staff
- Experience with V Model, Agile, and leading programmes
- Experience in resource management, HR support, recruiting, cost control and process improvement
- Ability to drive product development, sustainment, road‑map, schedule, cost/risk estimates and delivery commitments
How You Will Contribute
- Lead and develop two teams of engineers, represent them in MFT meetings
- Drive refinement and sustainment of SDR and Maritime Terminal products for reuse
- Manage team resources, HR processes, recruiting, and finance controlling for productive and unproductive hours
- Ensure required competences, tools, and processes are in place to meet market and customer needs
- Work with project team to secure road‑maps, schedules, assessments, cost/risk estimates, and delivery commitments
Support & Flexibility
Airbus supports personal growth through customised development solutions. Flexibility options include part‑time, remote work, and accommodation for disability or long‑term condition under the Equality Act 2010. Disclosure of adjustments for the selection process is confidential.
Equal Opportunities
Airbus is committed to equitable employment, diversity and inclusion regardless of social or cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief. The company never asks for any monetary exchange as part of the recruitment process.
Legal & Consent
By submitting your CV or application you consent to Airbus using and storing your information for monitoring purposes related to your application or future employment. Information will only be used by Airbus.
Locations
Head of Systems in Hampshire, Portsmouth employer: Airbus Defence and Space
Airbus is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Portsmouth or Stevenage where innovation meets inclusivity. With a strong focus on personal development, competitive financial rewards, and a commitment to work-life balance, employees thrive in a culture that champions growth and well-being. The opportunity to lead cutting-edge R&D teams in the defence sector ensures that your contributions will have a meaningful impact on the future of technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Systems in Hampshire, Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Airbus on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding the company’s projects and values. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for defence technology and how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about times you’ve successfully led teams or managed projects. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and keep it engaging.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role can leave a lasting impression. Plus, it shows us that you’re genuinely keen on joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Systems in Hampshire, Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Systems role. Highlight your experience in leading teams and managing projects, especially in R&D environments. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of your leadership and project management experience that relate to the job description.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When filling out your application, be sure to showcase any relevant experience in SATCOM, Telecoms, or secure satellite communications. We’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Airbus Defence and Space
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SATCOM, Telecoms, and secure satellite communications. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just a leader but also someone who understands the technical aspects of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in dynamic environments. Highlight your experience with Agile methodologies and how you've developed staff. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the two teams effectively.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with Airbus's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to an inclusive environment and support personal growth within your teams.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about resource management, HR processes, and project delivery commitments. Think of specific scenarios where you've managed costs or improved processes, as this will showcase your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
