Configuration Manager in Cheadle Hulme

Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, we help build a future we can all trust. Thales supports the security and stability of our nation by providing extraordinary technology to our customers, as well as delivering social value to the UK with our products and services.

About the Role

Step into a role where your curiosity, care and diligence make a real difference. You will be part of a collaborative community working at the heart of system integration, building strong relationships across the business while developing your own skills in a supportive, people‑focused environment.

Location: Templecombe or Cheadle or Crawley (3 days required in the office)

Under Water Systems (UWS) Our purpose is to be the leading provider of underwater sensors and decision superiority, helping navies across the world keep our friends, families and all of us safe. We cover four sectors: Mine Counter Measures, Anti‑Submarine warfare, Services and Future Capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead configuration planning and maintain CM plans, baselines and documentation across the project lifecycle.
• Manage configuration change control, including CCB coordination, traceability and approvals.
• Ensure product definition accuracy, including Bills of Materials and “as built / as installed / as tested” records.
• Conduct configuration audits and verifications (PCA/FCA) and assess supplier/contractor CM compliance.
• Maintain PLM data integrity, ensuring correct registration, release and lifecycle traceability of all configuration items.

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of configuration management processes, PLM tools and hardware/software CM practices.
• Knowledge of systems engineering and system integration principles.
• Comfortable navigating complexity, adapting to change and applying Lean/Agile approaches.
• Experience in defence, engineering or MOD‑related projects; familiarity with DEF Stan 00‑057 is beneficial.
• Confident communicator who builds positive relationships and supports effective supplier/partner collaboration.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including performance‑related bonus up to 10%.
• Half day every Friday, usually finishing around 13:00.
• 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) plus opportunity to buy up to 40 hours/year (paid for Private healthcare for yourself and partner).
• Pension cover.
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Program and access to mental wellbeing app.
• Employee discount shopping schemes on major brands.

Security Clearance Requirement

Due to the nature of the work that we do at Thales, many of our roles are subject to security restrictions. This role requires Security Clearance (SC). It would be advantageous if currently held, however, if not currently held, it is a requirement that the successful applicant undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance prior to commencing employment. To be eligible for full SC, you generally need to have resided in the UK for the last 5 years. In some circumstances, a minimum of 3 years’ residence in the UK over the last 5 years may be accepted, with additional overseas checks.

Equal Opportunity Statement

At Thales, we ensure equal opportunities, pay and working conditions for all. The benefits we offer include private medical insurance, buying or selling annual leave, cycle to work schemes, employee discounts, paid volunteering day, stocks and shares, annual bonus and much more depending on the role. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued for who they are and the unique strengths they bring.