Program Manager in Bedford

Program Manager in Bedford

Bedford Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Site Name

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage innovative programs in Electro-Optic and Navigation Systems for defence applications.
  • Company: Join Safran Optics 1, a leader in defence technology with a mission-driven culture.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, growth opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
  • Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for travel and professional development.
  • Why this job: Be part of a team that supports military personnel and drives technological advancements.
  • Qualifications: 3+ years experience in relevant fields and a degree in Engineering or related discipline.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

PROGRAM MANAGER
ABOUT OUR MISSION:
Safran Optics 1 is a global leader in full-service design and production of Electro-Optic and Navigation Systems. Leveraging core competencies in defense technologies, Optics 1 provides unmatched, first-class mission solutions for military and law enforcement personnel.
We have a high-paced, high-energy environment focused on acknowledging individual and team successes, as well as overall growth. Optics 1 is a community that cares about the mission of our customers. Our team believes in supporting and enriching our community through engagement; whether that means giving back to our troops, veterans and their families, investing in next generation innovators through STEM education, or higher education initiatives, giving back is an important part of who we are as a team.
POSITION PROFILE:
If being a part of a team that makes a difference, serving those who serve and delivering innovative technical solutions to challenging problems of national interest is what moves you, then look no further!
Come join our growing Program Management team at Safran Optics 1, where you will be responsible for managing technology-intensive programs through all stages of product development, providing program capture and execution leadership to our engineering teams to deliver state-of-the-art Electro-Optic and Navigation products with unparalleled benefits to our customers.
We have multiple openings and are looking for both veteran and rising star program managers: if you’re eager to learn and grow, we’re eager to have you join our team!
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Manage and/or assist in the management of programs associated with the development, introduction/ transition to production, and delivery of Electro-Optical and Navigation products for defense applications.
  • Lead development and detailed implementation of program plans, ensuring execution and performance is in accordance with contractual requirements and business objectives.
  • Provide programmatic leadership and technical oversight to cross-functional program development teams through effective management of scope, risk, budget, schedule, quality, and resources.
  • Serve as a direct customer interface, nurturing close customer relationships, proactively addressing challenges and pursuing opportunities to strategically expand the business.
  • Lead and/or support program capture/ proposal development efforts.
  • Other duties and responsibilities assigned, as may be required by the Company.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL:
  • Three (3) or more years of relevant experience in related or applicable fields.
  • Bachelor degree in Engineering, Physics, Math, Science, or related discipline.
  • Ability to manage technology-intense development efforts and lead cross-functional program and engineering development teams.
  • Experience developing and delivering complex integrated system hardware.
  • Demonstrated understanding of program/product life-cycle management, stage-gate management and best practices.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and apply integrated master plans and schedules, risk and opportunity management, and effective monitoring and control.
  • Proactive, systematic, and methodical approach to addressing challenges.
  • Willingness to learn and support others.
  • Must work well and thrive in deadline driven, fast-paced environments.
  • Strong communication, negotiation, collaborative problem solving, and conflict management skills; ability to influence, motivate, and drive without authority.
  • Experience with USG and DoD customer base.
  • Must be a US Citizen as the position requires the ability to obtain DoD Secret clearance.
IDEALLY, YOU WILL ALSO HAVE:
  • Relevant experience in Capture Management and development of competitive proposals for the defense customers.
  • Relevant experience in managing programs pursuing development of products for defense applications.
  • Master’s Degree strongly preferred.
  • Existing Program Management Certification (e.g., PMP Certification or equivalent).
  • Working knowledge of Earned Value Management.
  • Working knowledge of Systems Engineering practices.
  • Experience developing and introducing/ transitioning products, from early concepts to low rate initial production.
  • Relevant background in one or more of the following: Electro-Optical Systems such as laser systems, imaging systems, and night vision systems; Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Targeting Systems; and Navigation Systems.
  • Experience working in a fast-paced, multi-customer environment; international customer experience is a plus.
  • Proficiency in MS Office Suite including MS Word, MS Project, MS Outlook, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint.
  • Experience working in an ITAR environment.
  • Experience in DoD acquisition and contracting.
  • Active Secret security clearance.
TRAVEL:
  • Up to 30% - Frequent travel between facilities and customers in the United States, along with some international travel.
EEO STATEMENT & ACCESSIBILITY:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.
EOE/AA/M/F/Vets – US Protected Individual status required (US citizen, lawful permanent resident, asylee, refugee or temporary resident (as defined at 8 USC 1160(a).

Program Manager in Bedford employer: Site Name

At Safran Optics 1, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where individual contributions are recognised and celebrated. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our focus on STEM education initiatives and community engagement, ensuring that our team not only supports those who serve but also develops their skills in a fast-paced, technology-driven setting. Join us in making a meaningful impact while advancing your career in the defence sector.

Site Name

Contact Details:

Site Name Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Program Manager in Bedford

Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions

Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Program Manager at Site Name!

Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks

Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Site Name or be willing to refer you for that Program Manager position!

Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences

Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Site Name who’s on the lookout for their next Program Manager star!

Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online

Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Program Manager role at Site Name!

We think you need these skills to ace Program Manager in Bedford

Program Management
Technical Oversight
Cross-Functional Team Leadership
Risk Management
Budget Management
Schedule Management
Quality Assurance

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!

Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Site Name. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!

Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.

Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!

How to prepare for a job interview at Site Name

Master the Case Study Game

In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!

Know Your Numbers

Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!

Show Your Leadership Flair

As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Be a Cultural Fit

We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Site Name. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!