At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape a world-class Systems Engineering team for defence innovation.
- Company: Rapidly expanding engineering consultancy focused on high-profile defence programmes.
- Benefits: Excellent salary, pension, profit share, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor talent and influence major defence programmes.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping future defence capabilities and driving technical excellence.
- Qualifications: Senior engineering leader with experience in complex defence environments and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
We are partnering with a rapidly expanding engineering and technology consultancy delivering some of the UK's most complex and high-profile defence and national security programmes. As demand across strategic government initiatives continues to accelerate, we are seeking an exceptional leader to establish and drive a world-class Systems Engineering and Integrated Support capability.
This is a rare opportunity to build, influence and lead a highly specialist function operating at the forefront of defence innovation, digital transformation and complex systems delivery. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in technically demanding environments, enjoys building high-performing teams, and wants to play a pivotal role in shaping how future defence capability is designed, integrated, assured and sustained.
You will lead from the front influencing customers, developing people, driving technical excellence and helping define the next generation of engineering capability across major programmes.
The Opportunity
This is not simply a people management role. You will be responsible for defining the direction, capability and growth strategy of an expanding engineering function, while acting as a trusted advisor across some of the UK's most sophisticated defence programmes. Working closely with senior leadership, delivery teams and customer stakeholders, you will oversee the development and deployment of advanced Systems Engineering and Supportability approaches across the full project lifecycle — from early concept definition through to integration, validation, acceptance and operational sustainment.
You will also play a central role in growing the practice itself: shaping service offerings, mentoring engineering talent, supporting business growth and establishing technical best practice across the organisation.
What skills and experience are we looking for?
We're interested in speaking with senior engineering leaders who combine deep technical credibility with strong commercial awareness and inspirational leadership capability. You are likely to bring experience from a consultancy, systems integrator, defence prime, MOD environment or highly regulated engineering organisation.
Experience & Expertise
- Strong background in Systems Engineering within complex defence or government environments
- Expertise across requirements management, systems architecture and systems integration
- Experience delivering Integrated Logistic Support (ILS) or Integrated Product Support solutions
- Knowledge of Model-Based Systems Engineering approaches and modern digital engineering practices
- Understanding of UK defence acquisition frameworks and lifecycle governance
- Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary technical teams across large-scale programmes
- Experience supporting technical bids, customer engagements and capability development initiatives
- Strong understanding of System-of-Systems challenges, integration assurance and operational acceptance
If you're looking for a leadership role where you can combine technical authority, strategic influence and people development this is an exceptional opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Head of Systems Engineering employer: Frontier Resourcing Ltd
As a leading engineering and technology consultancy based in Bristol, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work culture that champions innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored development programmes and mentorship opportunities, ensuring that you can thrive in your career while contributing to mission-critical defence capabilities. With an excellent salary, pension, and profit share package, we offer not just a job, but a meaningful career where your expertise will shape the future of defence technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Systems Engineering
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. We recommend diving deep into their recent work in defence and systems engineering. This will show your genuine interest and help you stand out as a candidate who’s ready to contribute from day one.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to be able to clearly articulate your experience and how it aligns with the role of Head of Systems Engineering. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or mentor to get comfortable and confident.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Systems Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in Systems Engineering and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about defence innovation and how you can lead high-performing teams. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on projects that demonstrate your expertise in complex systems delivery and Integrated Logistic Support. We love seeing real examples of your impact in previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Frontier Resourcing Ltd
✨Know Your Systems Engineering Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Systems Engineering principles, especially in the context of defence and government environments. Be prepared to discuss your experience with requirements management, systems architecture, and integration, as these are key areas for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about leading high-performing teams, so be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed multidisciplinary teams in the past. Highlight your ability to inspire and mentor others, as well as your experience in driving technical excellence.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the UK defence acquisition frameworks and lifecycle governance. Being able to discuss how your work aligns with strategic government initiatives will demonstrate your commercial awareness and understanding of the industry landscape.
✨Prepare for Technical Discussions
Expect to dive deep into technical topics during the interview. Brush up on Model-Based Systems Engineering approaches and Integrated Logistic Support solutions. Being able to articulate your knowledge and experience in these areas will set you apart from other candidates.
