Head of Systems Engineering & Design Capability

MBDA UK Ltd; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence organisation in Bristol is seeking a Department Head for Systems Engineering. This role involves leading a team, developing engineering capabilities, and collaborating with stakeholders. The position offers a hybrid working model and a range of benefits, including a company bonus and private healthcare.

Benefits

Company bonus: Up to 35%

Car Allowance: £510/month

Pension: Up to 14% total contribution

Private Healthcare

Flexible working arrangements

Enhanced parental leave: Up to 26 weeks

Subsidised meals

Free parking

Qualifications

• Proven leadership in Systems Engineering.
• Strong communication skills and adaptability.
• Ideally degree-qualified in engineering, science, or maths.

Responsibilities

• Lead the evolution of Model Based Systems Engineering.
• Support project implementation of engineering processes.
• Provide guidance and training for Systems Engineers.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Thinking

Stakeholder Management

Communication

Adaptability

Education

Degree in Engineering

Degree in Science

Degree in Maths

Tools

IBM Engineering Lifecycle Management

Job description

Department Head - Systems Engineering

Location: Bristol

This is an outstanding opportunity to shape the future of Systems Engineering at MBDA UK. As Department Head, you will lead a team of engineers responsible for developing and maintaining our Systems Engineering and Design Capabilities.

Working Arrangements: Hybrid (2-3 days on-site per week)

Security Clearance: British Citizen or Dual UK national with British citizenship. All successful candidates will need to undergo HMG BPSS checks.

What We Offer:

• Company bonus: Up to 35%
• Car Allowance: £510/month
• Pension: Up to 14% total contribution
• Private Healthcare
• Flexible working arrangements
• Enhanced parental leave: Up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption, and shared parental leave
• Facilities: Subsidised meals, free parking, and more

The Role:

Lead the evolution of MBDA's Model Based Systems Engineering and Digital Engineering initiatives, reviewing methodologies and tools, and implementing new capabilities across projects. Identify and roll out the Systems Engineering Capability strategy, supporting over 800 engineers. Collaborate with stakeholders and develop guidance, training, and support materials.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and evolve Systems Engineering capabilities, including model-based engineering and AI exploitation
• Support project implementation of engineering processes and tools, especially IBM's Engineering Lifecycle Management
• Provide guidance, training, and career development for Systems Engineers
• Facilitate capability working groups within the MDUK division

Candidate Profile:

Proven leadership in Systems Engineering, strategic thinking, and stakeholder management. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and a passion for developing engineering talent. Ideally degree-qualified in engineering, science, or maths with a solid Systems Engineering background.

About MBDA:

MBDA is a leading defence organisation committed to supporting armed forces and defending freedom. We value diversity and encourage applicants to seek support or adjustments during the recruitment process.

Follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Glassdoor or visit our careers page for more information.