Engineering Transformation Manager

MISSION

At Thales Belgium – Herstal, the Engineering Transformation Manager plays a critical role in enabling the engineering organization to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s high-tech defense systems. Reporting directly to the Engineering Domain Manager, this role supports the transformation of engineering practices to ensure operational excellence, innovation, and long-term competitiveness.

Thales Herstal is a key player in the design and development of cutting-edge rocket systems, combining advanced R&D, high-precision engineering, and multi-domain system integration. In this context, the Engineering Transformation Manager contributes to the evolution of engineering methods, tools, and culture to support complex, high-stakes projects across the full system lifecycle.

This role focuses on identifying improvement opportunities, piloting strategic transformation initiatives (such as MBSE, PLM, Agile/Lean engineering, and digital toolchain integration), and guiding engineering teams through change. By promoting engineering excellence and alignment with Thales Group standards (e.g. Engineering Operating System), the Engineering Transformation Manager ensures that teams are equipped to deliver robust, secure, and innovative rocket system technologies.

Acting as a cross-functional coordinator and change agent, you will work in close collaboration with operational engineering, R&D engineers, program managers, operational excellence & QCS and industrialization teams, ensuring that transformation efforts are impactful, sustainable, and embedded in the daily operations of engineering.

RESPONSIBILITY

• Drive and coordinate engineering transformation initiatives across the function, including process harmonization, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), lean-agile practices, and digital thread enablement.
• Define and execute the strategic transformation roadmap, ensuring alignment with corporate goals across organization, tools, and processes.
• Translate high-level business objectives into concrete transformation plans with measurable outcomes.
• Work closely with engineering managers and project leaders to identify pain points, process inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.
• Streamline and optimize engineering workflows to enhance cross-functional collaboration, product quality, and delivery performance.
• Lead and support change management activities to accelerate adoption of new methodologies, digital tools, and collaborative ways of working.
• Develop and deploy training and awareness programs tailored to engineering teams’ needs and maturity.
• Coordinate stakeholder engagement and communication efforts, fostering alignment, transparency, and a shared vision across teams.
• Promote continuous improvement and knowledge sharing by actively managing change-related communications and addressing resistance to change.
• Lead cross-functional transformation projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with strategic priorities.
• Track progress of transformation programs using clearly defined KPIs, dashboards, and regular reporting to stakeholders.
• Ensure the integration of quality, cybersecurity, and safety requirements into all new engineering practices, in compliance with defense industry standards.
• Act as a key interface across functions, including engineering, industrialization, operational excellence, QCS (Quality, Compliance & Safety), program management, and enablers such as IT and operations

PROFILE

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Management, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field.
• At least 8–10 years of experience in engineering, industrial transformation, or continuous improvement roles, preferably within complex systems (aerospace, defense, automotive, etc.).
• Proven experience in leading cross-functional transformation initiatives with measurable business impact. Experience in organizational transformation, process improvement (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma), or change management.
• Familiarity with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), Lean/Agile practices, and digital engineering tools (e.g., PLM, Polarion, MBSE, Capella, Jira, etc.).
• Strong understanding of engineering lifecycle processes, system development models (V-cycle, Agile), and operational workflows.
• Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to influence without authority. Comfortable working across hierarchical levels, from operational teams to executive management.
• Solid project management skills: ability to plan, coordinate, and deliver complex programs across functions.
• Results-driven and pragmatic, with a strong sense of ownership.
• Curious, adaptable, and continuously seeking innovation.
• Ability to work in a matrixed, multi-site, and multicultural environment. Collaborative and inclusive, promoting team empowerment and cross-domain synergy.
• Familiarity with Thales processes (Engineering Operating System, RAMS, IVVQ).
• Certifications in Agile, Lean, Change Management (e.g., PROSCI)
• Background in systems engineering or defense programs is a strong asset
• Fluent in French, English; knowledge of German or Dutch is a plus