Operations Project Manager (Contract)

#Postion location moved to UK from Spain.

Position Overview:

Mercury EMEA is seeking an Operations Project Manager to lead the execution of aeronautical project from Start of Production (post-FAI) through serial production and up to End-of-Life (EOL).

The role focuses on programs already in production or close to launch. The Operations Project Manager shall ensure production performance, industrial continuity, and lifecycle support in a context of:

• Manufacturing transfer from internal production to external partners (e.g. CICOR)

• High obsolescence pressure on complex electronic systems

• Long lifecycle aerospace products

A limited scope of industrialization support prior to FAI is expected to secure a smooth production launch.

Key Responsibilities:

This position plays a key role in securing on-time, on-cost, and compliant delivery in a fast-paced environment involving new partnerships and constrained timelines driven by customer expectations.

1. Production & FAI Execution

• Lead execution of projects production or pre-production (FAI phase) ensuring on-time, on-cost and quality deliveries on serial units

• Contribute to final industrial readiness and First Article Inspection

• Drive ramp-to-rate activities and secure production stability

• Coordinate with engineering and supply chain to prevent production disruption

2. Manufacturing Transition & Partnership Management

• Support the transition from internal manufacturing to external partner

• Closely Monitor and track partner performance (quality, delivery, cost) and implement corrective actions to ensure commitment on delivery dates

• Proactively verify that:

o Components are ordered on time

o Supply chain risks are anticipated early

o Supplier assumptions are consistent

o Risks are escalated early

o Recovery plan are executed

3. Obsolescence & Supply Chain Risk Management

• Drive mitigation strategies with a proactive obsolescence management (components, materials, technology) to secure supply continuity

• Coordinate with engineering and supply chain to prevent production disruption

4. Lifecycle to EO & Sustainment

• Ensure product supportability (spares, repairs, configuration management) throughout operational life acc. to customer expectations and maintenance contract

• Plan and execute product phase-out (final builds, LTB, customer alignment)

5. Cross-functional Coordination

• Align Engineering, Industrial , Manufacturing Supply Chain and quality to resolve industrial issues

6. Project Control & Performance Management

• Manage project KPIs: schedule, cost, delivery, and quality

• Identify risks and implement mitigation plans

• Provide regular reporting to senior management and stakeholders

7. Customer & Stakeholder Interface

• Act as primary interface for internal and external stakeholders during production phase

• Ensure customer commitments are met, particularly for:

o Delivery performance

o FAI acceptance

o Industrial maturity

Key Challenges of the Role

• Managing production under supply chain and obsolescence constraints

• Securing fast and effective outsourcing transition

• Driving supplier commitment and reliability (including close operational follow-up)

• Ensuring long-term product availability and support

• Operating in a hybrid industrial model (internal + external manufacturing)

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Proven experience in aerospace or defense project management

• Strong background in:

o Production ramp-up / industrialization

o Manufacturing Supplier and subcontractor management

o FAI / qualification processes

• Solid understanding of:

o Electronic systems / avionics products

o Supply chain and manufacturing processes

• Experience with obsolescence management and lifecycle support is a strong advantage

Key Competencies

• Strong execution and problem-solving mindset

• Ability to operate under high pressure and tight timelines

• Excellent stakeholder communication skills

• Risk anticipation and mitigation capability

• Structured and results-driven approach

MUST / Nice-to-Have:

• Experience with manufacturing transfer / outsourcing (MUST)

• Knowledge of EN9100 / aerospace quality standards (MUST)

• Familiarity with safety-certifiable systems (DAL A / DO-254, DO-178) (Nice to have)