Improvement Program Manager

Within Thales Netherlands' Operations organization, the Improvement team focuses 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 address root causes instead of symptoms of sub-optimal performance. In addition, the team focuses on behavioral change and leadership to ensure sustainable change, using an outside-in approach by bringing customer focus and embracing industry best practices and 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).

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, take responsibility, and cooperate with each other. Are you an experienced Project Manager with a talent for leading complex transformation initiatives in a high-tech environment? Do you have a proven ability to drive organizational change, streamline processes, and inspire teams to achieve their best? Do you easily connect and empathize with people? Are you able to adjust strategies and approaches as new information and challenges arise? Are you a strong leader who motivates and guides others through change? Do you see the big picture of improvements and are you able to maintain focus? Are you an energetic and engaging team player?

As Improvement Program Manager, you will take ownership of end-to-end improvement projects, working closely with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities, implement solutions, and deliver measurable results that align with organizational goals.

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 a high-tech, innovative work environment, including the freedom for initiative and good ideas.
• Room for personal and professional growth within the organization, for example in 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, the bicycle plan, company fitness, and relocation costs.
• 40 days off per year (PTO).

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.