At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic Support Services team in delivering top-notch technical support and logistics.
- Company: Join MSI-Defence Systems, a leader in innovative defence solutions with a people-centric culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible hours, and opportunities for continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact in defence while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Five years in ILS Engineering or Technical Publications, strong leadership and problem-solving skills.
- Other info: Be part of a growing company that values collaboration and work-life balance.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Us:
At the forefront of modern defence, MSI-Defence Systems Ltd (MSI-DS) specialise in advanced Remote Weapon Stations for land-based counter-drone and naval applications, helping armed forces to stay ahead of rapidly evolving threats. With almost 140 years of defence manufacturing expertise, we deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions engineered to meet the most demanding and stringent operational requirements and as a trusted supplier to the UK Armed Forces and more than 40 militaries worldwide, our class-leading products surpass capability expectations whilst also offering unrivalled through-life in service support. We are currently in a phase of strategic growth, investing in new technologies, expanding our global footprint, and strengthening our position as a leader in next-generation defence systems. This growth is driven by our people. We are a people-centric organisation that values collaboration, innovation, and integrity, and we actively support work–life balance, continuous learning, and long-term career progression. Joining us means becoming part of a forward-looking business where your expertise is valued, your development is supported, and your work makes a real-world impact.
About the role:
The Support Services Manager is responsible for leading the Support Services team, consisting of Technical Publications and Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) Engineering staff, within the In-Service Support directorate. Accountable for the timely and accurate provision of ILS data, equipment handbooks and training material for MSI-DS equipment across the engineering lifecycle, as well as the ongoing maintenance of the software tools used to maintain this capability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Ensure that all tasks assigned to the Support Services team are managed and prioritised to enable timely delivery on budget and in accordance with contractual requirements.
- Ensure that all deliverables are reviewed and meet the quality standards outlined in the MSI-DS Departmental Quality Manual(s).
- Ensure the logistic data held within MSI-DS data repositories reflects the latest configuration of the equipment as supplied.
- Support the Company’s bid proposal process through provision of tender response documentation.
- Provide technical support, advice and governance to the members of the Support Services Team.
- Be the single point of contact for the tasking of individuals within the Support Services Team by staff from other teams/departments.
- Identify, obtain and manage the appropriate software tools and external support to allow tasks to be conducted by the Support Services Team or external subcontractors as appropriate to project scope and timescales.
- Identify and provide training (both external and within role) to individuals new to the team.
- Effectively lead and manage all direct reports.
- Liaise with external customers on Support Services matters.
About you:
To be a successful candidate for this role you must be able to demonstrate the below attributes and skillsets:
- Working knowledge and experience of investigating and mitigating obsolescence.
- A minimum of five years’ experience in an ILS Engineering / Technical Publications role.
- Working Knowledge and experience of Support Engineering in the defence industry.
- Experience in MS Office applications, including MS Project.
- Strong leadership skills, with a desire to develop their team and optimise performance.
- Strong problem-solving skills, with an assertive approach to negotiating solutions with internal and external customers and stakeholders.
- Knowledge of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) tools and data manipulation (IFS preferred).
- Working knowledge and experience in the use of Logistic Support Analysis (LSA) tools (EDCAS & VMetric preferred).
- Working knowledge and experience in the use of Failure / Defect Reporting and Corrective Action System (FRACAS / DRACAS) tools (Windchill preferred).
- Working knowledge and experience of investigating and reporting Availability, Reliability and Maintainability (ARM).
- Working knowledge and experience of NATO Codification.
- Knowledge of Asset Management tools and data manipulation (LEO preferred).
- Excellent communication and administrative skills; the ability to work cooperatively in a team is important.
How to apply:
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and be a part of a company that values your skills and contributions, we encourage you to apply by clicking the apply button!
Support Services Manager in Norwich employer: MSI-DS Ltd
Contact Detail:
MSI-DS Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Services Manager in Norwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at MSI-Defence Systems on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company’s recent projects and innovations. Show us that you’re genuinely interested in how MSI-DS is leading in defence technology and how you can contribute to that success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your STAR technique for answering behavioural questions. We want to hear about specific situations where you’ve demonstrated leadership or problem-solving skills, especially in ILS Engineering or Technical Publications.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your enthusiasm for the role can keep you fresh in our minds and show us that you’re proactive.
We think you need these skills to ace Support Services Manager in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Support Services Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant ILS Engineering or Technical Publications work you've done.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for MSI-DS. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles, especially in the defence industry.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, emphasise your strong problem-solving abilities. We want to see how you've negotiated solutions with customers and stakeholders in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at MSI-DS.
How to prepare for a job interview at MSI-DS Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) and Technical Publications. Familiarise yourself with the specific tools mentioned in the job description, like EDCAS and Windchill, so you can confidently discuss your experience and how it relates to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Support Services Manager, you'll need strong leadership skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, focusing on how you developed team members and optimised performance. This will demonstrate your capability to manage and inspire your future team.
✨Be Ready for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of specific challenges you've faced in previous roles, particularly in the defence industry, and be ready to explain how you approached these issues and what solutions you implemented.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication is key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. During the interview, ensure you listen carefully to questions and respond thoughtfully, showcasing your ability to work cooperatively within a team.