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Head of Design Office

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Safran

5d ago

  • Job
    Full-time
    Expert Level
  • Engineering
    Design
  • Newport

AI generated summary

  • You need a relevant engineering degree, 10+ years in aircraft design, 5+ years managing teams, deep knowledge of aircraft seating, expertise in Catia and PLM, plus strong leadership skills.
  • You will ensure quality, timely mechanical & electrical designs, develop team competency, drive continuous improvement, and liaise with stakeholders to meet cost and performance targets.

Requirements

  • Graduate or Post Graduate Degree in Engineering required.
  • 10 years working in a design role for aircraft equipment, with a minimum of 5 years' experience of managing large design teams.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of aircraft seat and furniture design.
  • Wide knowledge of Aerospace Engineering processes and Standards, and a detailed working knowledge of the Engineering processes within Safran Seats.
  • Experience with Catia and management of PLM systems in an aerospace environment.
  • The role demands a high level of technical and process knowledge, and the ability to apply those processes across the full range of projects that the company is involved with.
  • As a Department Head, the position holder is expected to fully manage their team in full accordance with HR policies and to ensure that the team continues to develop in both technical and management capability.
  • The role is focused on ensuring compliance to internal and external processes and standards and so strong technical leadership is necessary and expected.
  • The Design Office comprises approx. 100 professional engineers that work across a wide range of projects, and so there is a clear need for effective and ongoing leadership and people management to ensure consistency and clarity about expectations.
  • The position holder must ensure that the Design team has the capability to solve the vast majority of the problems that arise during development projects and audits, but it is also expected that the most critical issues will be owned and driven directly by the Department Head.
  • The position holder is also required to lead the development of new processes and continued improvements to existing standards and ways of working.
  • It is important that the role holder is able to manage communication at all levels within the company, from technical reviews with company Executives to encouraging progress, celebrating success or finding improvements within the department.
  • Potential travel in the UK and internationally.

Responsibilities

  • Overall responsibility for the quality and on-time delivery of mechanical & electrical designs across all projects in accordance with Engineering Processes and Standards.
  • Ensures the team has the right competency levels with recruitment, development of people and training.
  • Works in collaboration with the programme team to ensure that products meet cost and weight targets.
  • Responsible for the design tools & processes.
  • Liaise with internal and external customers, suppliers, departments and regulatory bodies as required.
  • Work to the group KPI's for Quality, Cost & Delivery.
  • Drives continuous improvement of department processes and manuals and development of new capabilities and methods.
  • Implement a ‘Right First Time' culture for the production of engineering drawings & models.
  • Continually interface with sales, manufacturing and operations to integrate feedback into improving and refining design solutions, particularly in relation to Design for Manufacture and Design to Cost.
  • Develop processes and systems to monitor and evaluate the performance of the design teams, highlight emerging issues and work closely with the teams to develop robust solutions.

FAQs

What is the primary focus of the Head of Design Office role at Safran Seats?

The primary focus is to manage a large team of design engineers, ensuring quality and on-time delivery of mechanical and electrical designs, while enhancing passenger experience through innovative seating solutions.

What qualifications are required for the Head of Design Office position?

A Graduate or Post Graduate Degree in Engineering is required, along with a minimum of 10 years of experience in a design role for aircraft equipment, including at least 5 years in managing large design teams.

What software proficiency is expected from candidates?

Candidates should have experience with Catia and management of PLM systems within an aerospace environment.

Is international travel required for this position?

Yes, potential travel in the UK and internationally is required.

What are the key responsibilities of the Head of Design Office?

Responsibilities include ensuring quality and timely delivery of designs, managing team competency levels, collaborating with program teams, driving continuous improvement, and maintaining compliance with health, safety, and environmental objectives.

How does Safran Seats approach sustainability?

Safran Seats is committed to contributing to a safer and more sustainable aviation industry, with a goal to decarbonize by 2050.

What kind of team management experience is required?

A minimum of 5 years' experience in managing large design teams is required, emphasizing the importance of leadership and people management.

Are there opportunities for career development within the company?

Yes, Safran Seats is committed to developing employees' skills and building opportunities for career advancement.

What is the company culture like at Safran Seats?

The culture emphasizes diversity, inclusion, collaboration, and continuous improvement, fostering a supportive environment for innovation.

What level of communication skills is expected for this role?

Strong interpersonal skills are necessary for effective communication at all levels, from technical reviews with executives to team motivation and improvement discussions.

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Defence & Aerospace
Industry
10,001+
Employees
2005
Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 79,000 employees and holds, alone or in partnership, world or European leadership positions in its core markets.