Solution Configuration Manager

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.

An exciting opportunity exists to join our team as the Solution Configuration Manager. You will be responsible for the tailoring and the applying Configuration Management processes in accordance with the contractual requirements and governance standards related to their projects.

Location: Glasgow / Reading

Key Responsibilities and Tasks

· Coordinate all the Configuration Management activities within your project(s) in collaboration with all the stakeholders, in particular the Project Managers (PMs), the Product or System Engineering Delivery Managers (EDMs), the Work Package Managers (WPMs) or the other CMs in the case of Delegated Lots

· Organise the Configuration Management activities and interface with the Project Managers on the planning and management aspects, taking into account:

· The adaptation of the configuration management system, in compliance with the contractual requirements

· The execution of the configuration management system within the project, in compliance with the Configuration Management requirements of your entity

· The consistency and completeness of the project information in the configuration management system of your entity

· Establish and implement the configuration management Plan

· Specify the configuration management requirements to subcontractors and suppliers through statements of work and ensure that:

· The Configuration Management requirements are properly implemented (development of the SOW, etc.)

· The Configuration Management requirements are respected

· Participate in the selection of configuration items and to the establishment of the various breakdown structures
Ensure identification activities piloting and implementation (CI selection, breakdown structures identification, baseline needs...)

· Organise, lead and control the Configuration Control Board (both internal and external) as well as the pre and post CCB activities and relation communication

· Establish the configuration baselines (FBL, ABL, PBL, and according to project’s needs)

· Ensure the recording and the restitution of the configuration status

· Participate in end of phase reviews (SFR, PDR, CDR...)

· Perform configuration verifications

· Perform or participate in Functional and Physical configuration audits

· Raise awareness, advise and share best practices with the various contributors on the implementation of configuration management

· Coordinate the actions of the Configuration Administrators if necessary

· Participate in the analysis of contractual requirements and the preparation of

· Configuration Management quotations during the bid phase

About you

• You graduated with a Master of Engineering, Computer Science or any other related in University, and you have proven experience in the field of configuration management
• You have already worked in an integrated team within large scopes combining specific developments and off-the-shelf solutions
• You particularly appreciate collaborative work and enjoy stimulating exchanges
• You have outstanding problem-solving skills and a passion to solve difficult issues
• You are looking for challenge through unforeseen events and business emergencies
• You are recognised for your pragmatism, commitment and rigor
• You master the standard Thales configuration management processes and tools, particularly those linked with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)
• You have a good knowledge of the operational processes and methods (Bid & projects, Engineering, Production, Services)
• You have great knowledge of system integration principles (System, Hardware and Software)
• You master relevant tools like those related to Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)
• You are able to adapt and assess the configuration management system as well as the contractual and commercial requirements within your scope
• You know how to adopt Lean Management approach and apply Agile principles to the management and development of the team
• You are able to manage complexity
• You are able to thrive forward in changing environments and manage changes
• You have knowledge in Hardware & Software CM practices and tools
• You are able to create buy-in explaining / detailing your needs and initiatives

What We Offer

At Thales, you'll have the opportunity to work on some of the world's most advanced maritime defence programmes while contributing to technologies that matter.

In return, we offer:

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
• Performance-related bonus
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Career development and professional learning opportunities
• Access to wellbeing and employee support programmes
• The chance to work within a diverse, collaborative and globally connected organisation

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.

Please visit the UKSV website for further guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels.

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. Read more about our benefits here.

We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued for who they are and the unique strengths they bring. Discover more about our programmes, employee networks, wellbeing policies, and inclusive features here.

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. Join the Talent Community here.

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