Improvement Program Manager, Hengelo

About The Improvement Team The Improvement team is part of the Operations organization within Thales Netherlands. The focus of the Improvement team is on structurally solving complex end‑to‑end issues across organizational functions and disciplines by deploying best practices and fixing the basics. The ambition is to fix root causes instead of fighting the symptoms of sub‑optimal performance. In addition, we focus on behavioral change and leadership to ensure sustainable change. We use an outside‑in approach by bringing customer focus and embracing industry best practices/standards. The improvement team has several fields of expertise, such as program management for large Improvement Initiatives, change management, Lean and Business Process Management (PLM&ERP).

Location Hengelo, Netherlands

About Your Future Job To continuously excel in on time, on cost, on quality delivery to customers, we stimulate a culture in which we work on continuous improvement and learning, we take responsibility and cooperatively work together. If you are an experienced Project Manager skilled in leading complex transformation initiatives in a high‑tech environment, you can drive organizational change, streamline processes, and inspire teams to achieve their best.

Your main tasks include:

Plan, manage, and execute improvement projects across various departments.

Collaborate with stakeholders to define project objectives, timelines, and deliverables.

Inspire and engage people for change.

Manage stakeholder expectations.

Analyze current processes and identify opportunities for optimization.

Implement change management strategies to ensure successful adoption of improvements.

Track and report on project progress, ensuring deadlines and quality standards are met.

Facilitate awareness and design workshops and training sessions to support continuous improvement efforts.

Why you'd be a good match

A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Business Administration, Engineering, Project Management).

Minimum 5 years of experience managing improvement or change management projects in high‑tech environments.

Strong understanding of process improvement methodologies such as Lean or Six Sigma.

Strong understanding of change management approaches such as ADKAR, 6 batteries of change and Kotter’s 8 step change model.

Experience in integrating PLM, ERP and S&OP processes and systems to drive operational efficiency and strategic alignment.

Excellent organizational and planning skills.

A proactive, problem‑solving mindset with a focus on delivering tangible results.

Outstanding communication and leadership abilities, with experience in stakeholder management.

Pragmatic approach without losing focus on the long‑term transformations that are required.

A true team player who thrives in a collaborative environment and contributes to a positive team dynamic.

Thales offers

A challenging job in a great team within our high‑tech, innovative work environment, with freedom for initiative and good ideas.

Room for personal and professional growth within our organization, for example in regards to technical, commercial or international skills.

Valuable international collaboration with coworkers from 68 different countries around the globe.

A comfortable workspace in a modern environment, with a focus on flexibility and the right work‑life balance.

You can usually work where and whenever you want. Within Thales, we aim for a 60/40 balance, where you work from home at least two days a week, when your role allows this.

A good salary, fitting travel allowance, and the ability to personalize your employment conditions: for instance, you can trade PTO for internet costs, our bicycle plan, company fitness and relocation costs.

40 days off per year (PTO).

Diversity Statement We actively support a working pattern that suits your lifestyle and helps you reach your ambitions. That means equal opportunities, inclusion and an informal culture are integral to our success. It also means that your well‑being and happiness matter to us! That’s why we offer you the flexibility to do what’s important to you; whether that’s part‑time hours, job sharing, remote working, or the ability to flex your start and finish times.

Security Requirements In line with Thales’ Baseline Security requirements, candidates will be asked to provide evidence of identity, eligibility to work in The Netherlands and employment and/or education history. Some vacancies may require a security clearance which can require further evidence to be provided. For further details of theevidence required to apply for security clearance please refer to the General Intelligence and Security Service.

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