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: Dynamic role with opportunities to mentor talent and influence major programmes.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on the future of defence capability and technology.
- Qualifications: Senior engineering leader with deep technical expertise and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
Shape the Future of Mission-Critical Defence Capability
Bristol Based
Excellent Salary, Pension and Profit Share package
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.
- 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: Resourcing Group
As a leading engineering and technology consultancy based in Bristol, we offer an exceptional work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our comprehensive training programmes, mentorship opportunities, and a culture that values technical excellence and teamwork. With an attractive salary package, including pension and profit share, we empower our employees to shape the future of defence capability while enjoying a fulfilling career in a rapidly expanding sector.
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 lead.
✨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 with your delivery.
✨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 the initiative to engage directly with us.
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 the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've led teams or delivered complex projects in the past.
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:Don’t shy away from diving into the technical details. We’re looking for someone with a strong background in Systems Engineering, so make sure to highlight your relevant skills and experiences clearly.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Resourcing Group
✨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 ready to discuss your experience with requirements management, systems architecture, and integration, as these are key areas for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership capabilities. Think about times when you've built high-performing teams or influenced stakeholders. This role is not just about technical skills; they want to see how you can inspire and mentor others.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the UK defence acquisition frameworks and lifecycle governance. Being able to speak knowledgeably about these topics will demonstrate your commercial awareness and strategic thinking, which are crucial for this position.
✨Prepare for Technical Discussions
Expect to dive deep into technical discussions during the interview. Brush up on Model-Based Systems Engineering approaches and Integrated Logistic Support solutions. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in past projects and how they can benefit future programmes.
