At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead configuration and data management for cutting-edge naval communication systems.
- Company: Thales, a global tech leader in defence and security.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private healthcare, bonuses, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team with a commitment to inclusion and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in configuration management and STEM qualifications required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Location: Reading, 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.
Thales has been awarded a major contract to maintain the Royal Navy’s internal and external fleet communications for the next 10 years. We will be supporting the fleets communications systems to support combat capability after one of the largest investments in naval communications across Europe.
As part of our expanding operations, we are recruiting for Configuration and Data Management Lead. You would lead and ensure the consistent application of the principles of configuration management across the project both within the programme development and within the in-service support.
We’re looking for an individual that focuses on putting high quality Configuration and Data Management at the heart of every Engineering development through proactive leadership and influencing at all levels of the delivery programme.
Key Tasks And Responsibilities Will Include:
- Specifying, maintaining and ensuring compliance to CM and DM requirements, including leading audits & assessments of all levels of programme data to ensure CM processes, systems and deliverables meet defined requirements.
- Ensuring the correct identification and definition of the product and its defining data, including participation in engineering design reviews.
- Establishment & maintenance of configuration baselines (FBL, ABL, PBL), selection of solution Configuration Items (CIs).
- Creation and maintenance of the change management system, including coordination and facilitation of internal and external Configuration Control Boards (CCBs), ensuring all changes are traceable throughout design and implementation.
- Creation and maintenance of the Configuration Status Accounting Report (CSAR) used to describe the configuration management phases and milestone achievement to track design evolution and implementation; captures, verifies and controls ‘as built’, ‘as installed’, ‘as tested’ and ‘as maintained’ configuration information.
- Planning and completion of configuration verifications and configuration audits (PCA & FCA).
- Identifying, developing and deploying improvements to the CM Process.
The ideal candidate we are looking for will:
- Be experienced in implementing Configuration Management (CM) within Defence, Safety Critical and/or Commercial environments.
- Hold STEM qualifications, ideally bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- Proven experience in Configuration and Change Management across product lifecycles (concept through to support) for System, Hardware and Software Configuration Management processes.
- Familiar with Product Lifecycle Management tools (e.g. Windchill, PALMA, etc.).
- Experience of Data Management (DM) and Document Management tools.
- An ability to work with customers, subcontractors, and partners, as well as mentor internal staff members to increase capability.
- Familiar with delivering training in CM Process, Practice and Tools.
Security Clearance Statement: This role will require SC Clearance. It would be advantageous if currently held, however, if not currently held, it is a requirement that the successful applicant will undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance.
What We Can Offer: We are committed to giving you opportunities to be your best. We believe in embracing the passion and potential of our people, and to achieve this we offer market leading training, development and experiences, along with the opportunity to be mentored and coached by some of the smartest minds in the industry. We hire from within as our first priority, so you’ll have a myriad of opportunities within our diverse, global organisation.
Our packages will include significant bonus, a strong pension contribution, private healthcare, development focused targets and relocation support can be provided if required along with a variety of learning, development and career enhancement opportunities.
Thales is an equal opportunities employer and diversity and inclusion are integral to the success of 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.
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.
Configuration Management and Data Management Lead in Reading employer: Thales
Thales is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering market-leading training and mentorship from industry experts. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, Thales fosters a supportive work culture in Reading, where employees can thrive while contributing to critical projects like the Royal Navy's fleet communications. The comprehensive benefits package, including private healthcare and generous bonuses, further enhances the rewarding experience of working with a global technology leader dedicated to building a secure future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Configuration Management and Data Management Lead in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those already at Thales. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on what they're really looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to Configuration Management and Data Management. We recommend using the STAR method to structure your answers – it helps you showcase your experience effectively!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for the role! When you get the chance to speak with recruiters or during interviews, let them know why you're excited about working with Thales and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨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, you’ll find all the latest opportunities there, so keep checking back!
We think you need these skills to ace Configuration Management and Data Management Lead in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Configuration Management and Data Management Lead role. Highlight your relevant experience in CM and DM, and show us how your skills align with what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to see your accomplishments! Use specific examples that demonstrate your impact in previous roles, especially in implementing CM processes or leading audits.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thales
✨Know Your Configuration Management Basics
Make sure you brush up on the core principles of Configuration Management (CM) and Data Management (DM). Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles, especially in defence or safety-critical environments. This will show that you understand the importance of CM in ensuring project success.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Tools
Get to know the Product Lifecycle Management tools mentioned in the job description, like Windchill or PALMA. If you have experience with them, be prepared to share specific examples of how you've used these tools to manage configuration and data effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to solve hypothetical problems related to CM and DM. Think about past experiences where you had to lead audits or manage change control boards. Practising your responses will help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Since the role involves leading and mentoring, be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you've influenced teams in the past. Share examples of how you've improved processes or trained others in CM practices, as this will demonstrate your proactive approach to leadership.