At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead industrial excellence in Under Water Systems, driving performance and innovation.
- Company: Thales, a global technology leader in defence and digital security.
- Benefits: Private medical insurance, annual bonus, employee discounts, and more.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to innovation and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact while shaping the future of underwater systems.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering or Manufacturing; lean expertise preferred.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
Location: Templecombe, United Kingdom
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.
Are you ready to lead industrial excellence in a purpose-driven organisation? At Thales UK, we are seeking a visionary Head of Industry to drive performance, innovation, and transformation across our Under Water Systems business—helping keep people safe worldwide.
The Role
- You will lead the full industrial ecosystem, ensuring delivery across planning, procurement, manufacturing, and logistics.
- With accountability for both performance and customer satisfaction, you’ll shape and execute industrial strategy while championing lean principles and Industry 4.0 transformation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end industrial delivery, including planning, procurement, manufacturing, and logistics aligned to S&OP supply plans.
- Deploy industrial strategy, ensuring effective use of human, financial, and physical resources.
- Oversee supply chain, manufacturing, industrial engineering, and continuous improvement activities (total 300 headcount, 8 direct reports).
- Ensure successful industrialisation of new products from design through to production.
- Deliver performance against quality, cost, and delivery targets by optimising inventory, supply, and WIP.
- Drive adoption of Industry 4.0 and digital industrial technologies.
- Ensure effective use of industrial systems (ERP, MES, QMS).
- Lead change management and embed a culture of continuous improvement.
- Manage cost centre (~£15M) and industrial throughput (c. £200M+).
- Ensure compliance with Health, Safety & Environmental standards.
- Represent industrial operations at bid and gate reviews, approving industrial solutions.
- Act as industrial lead within business domains, supporting proposals and programme delivery.
About You
- Senior operational leader with experience in complex manufacturing and supply chains.
- Strong expertise in lean manufacturing and industrial transformation.
- Proven ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams and drive change.
- Excellent communicator with the ability to influence at all levels.
Qualifications
- Degree in Engineering or Manufacturing (essential).
- Lean expertise (e.g., 5S, Kaizen).
- MBA, APICS or Green Belt (desirable).
Why Thales?
Join a global leader at the forefront of defence innovation. Shape the future of underwater systems while making a real-world impact. Apply now and lead industrial excellence at Thales.
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.
If this role isn’t quite right for you, we encourage you to join our talent community where your details will be shared with our recruitment teams for other potential opportunities.
Head of Industry UWS (Under Water Systems) employer: Thales
Thales UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Templecombe where innovation meets purpose. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive benefits including private medical insurance, flexible leave options, and opportunities for professional development. Join us to lead the charge in underwater systems while contributing to meaningful projects that enhance safety and security worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Industry UWS (Under Water Systems)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly fits the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Industry role. Highlight your experience in lean manufacturing and industrial transformation to show you mean business.
✨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, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining Thales.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Industry UWS (Under Water Systems)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Industry role. Highlight your experience in complex manufacturing and supply chains, and don’t forget to showcase your lean manufacturing expertise. We want to see how you can drive performance and innovation!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about leading industrial excellence at Thales. Share specific examples of how you've led teams and driven change in previous roles. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a senior operational leader, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams. In your application, mention any relevant experiences where you’ve influenced others and achieved results. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and motivate!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our amazing benefits there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thales
✨Know Your Industry Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the Under Water Systems sector. Familiarise yourself with current trends, challenges, and innovations. This will not only show your passion but also help you engage in meaningful conversations about how you can drive performance and transformation at Thales.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Industry, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed change, driven lean principles, or improved processes. Be ready to discuss how you can inspire and influence others at all levels.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to lean manufacturing, supply chain management, and digital technologies. Brush up on your knowledge of ERP, MES, and QMS systems. Being able to articulate your expertise in these areas will be crucial in showcasing your fit for the role.
✨Align with Thales' Values
Thales is all about innovation and social value. Research their mission and values, and think about how your personal values align with theirs. During the interview, express your commitment to making a real-world impact through your work, which will resonate well with the interviewers.
