Sea Ceptor Obsolescence Manager in Bolton

Sea Ceptor is undergoing significant evolution, supporting domestic customers across three platforms (some already in use, others in development), while also expanding to multiple export markets. The growth in both export and domestic capability requirements is driving a shift in how we deliver, with simultaneous support for multiple in-service demands. At the same time, we are evolving the design to meet immediate export needs and future domestic upgrades— a truly unique programme within MBDA. After nearly a decade in service, Sea Ceptor has a strong order book and growing export opportunities. The programme now faces challenges in resolving known obsolescence issues to ensure continued manufacture and to meet customer requirements.

In addition to the main role as Sea Ceptor Obsolescence Manager, the successful candidate will also play a pivotal role in knowledge management for the project, coordinating and retaining Sea Ceptor product knowledge and owning the Lessons Learned process across all programmes. The candidate will coordinate reviews and track resolutions.

Responsibilities

• Provide detailed analysis and assess impact for identified obsolescence issues.
• Develop technical options and recommendations to resolve obsolescence.
• Present technical information to internal and external stakeholders.
• Support bidding activities related to obsolescence.
• Help develop high‑level strategies for managing obsolescence across all Sea Ceptor platforms (equipment in production, in‑service and future contracts).
• Secure resources to deliver solutions to obsolescence issues.
• Oversee cross‑functional teams to achieve solutions within necessary timescales.
• Work closely with electronic and mechanical design functions, software teams, test equipment design teams, in‑service support teams and Bolton manufacturing to deliver solutions on time and on budget.
• Liaise with Land Ceptor & SV CAMM projects to ensure the obsolescence strategy serves the whole business.
• Coordinate with Export and Engineering teams so the obsolescence strategy feeds the export business case and the mid‑life uplift programme for Sea Ceptor.
• Ensure delivery plans are maintained and updated in partnership with project management.
• Maintain the project's Knowledge Management process and incorporate any functional and company initiatives.
• Coordinate all Sea Ceptor Lessons Learned sessions.
• Review and update the Project Knowledge Management plan.
• Contribute to annual company KM review sessions.
• Champion the creation of Knowledge Books.

Qualifications & Experience

• Ideally HNC level qualification or equivalent in a relevant subject or experience.
• Strong appreciation of electronic design to evaluate technical solutions and trade‑offs.
• Experience in engaging with and presenting technical information to senior stakeholders.
• Understanding of product lifecycle and experience in production test readiness activities.
• Experience generating and managing P6 plans.
• Experience with Knowledge Management processes and practices.

Salary: Circa £60,000 - £65,000 depending on experience.

Working arrangement: Dynamic (hybrid) working – 2–3 days per week on‑site.

Security clearance: British Citizen or Dual UK national with British citizenship; all successful candidates will undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS) after offer.

Restrictions and limitations: Nationality and rights to work may apply and all candidates must meet the minimum security clearance requirements.

Benefits

• Company bonus up to 21% of base salary.
• Pension with a total contribution of up to 14% (employer and employee).
• Flexible working arrangements available.
• Enhanced parental leave: up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption, and shared parental leave; additional provisions for paternity, neonatal leave and fertility treatments.
• Site facilities – subsidised meals, free car parking, and more.
• Healthcare Cash Plan for everyday healthcare expenses.