PMO Manager Lead

Thales Canada Inc., Defence and Security

Location:

Ottawa, Canada In fast changing markets, customers worldwide rely on Thales. Thales is a business where brilliant people from all over the world come together to share ideas and inspire each other. In aerospace, transportation, defence, security and space, our architects design innovative solutions that make our tomorrow's possible.

Ottawa, ON
- Hybrid

• Requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the Canadian Export Control List, the ITAR or the EAR
• Requires a positive Controlled Goods assessment as you will have direct access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the Canadian Controlled Goods Program
• Required to obtain and maintain a Security Clearance at the NATO Secret Level

We have a current vacancy for a PMO Manager Lead to join our Team in Ottawa, Ontario.

Reporting to the Head of PMO, the PMO Manager Lead works closely with Program Managers to ensure that Thales' in-service support programs are delivered efficiently, compliantly, and in alignment with Thales' strategic objectives. This role oversees governance, relational contracting, communications, planning, risk, training, performance and reporting, to maintain consistency and excellence across all initiatives.

Working closely with the Customer, executive leadership and cross-functional teams in a matrixed environment, the PMO Manager Lead drives program visibility, resource optimization, and continuous improvement. They ensure the programs meet the highest standards of quality, accuracy and compliance, while strengthening delivery capability.

• Leadership & Governance
  • Lead the PMO to ensure consistent application of governance, methodologies and standards across Thales' in-service support programs.
  • Maintain frameworks, tools and processes supporting project delivery and reporting.
  • Establish and control the program business rhythm.
• Program Oversight
  • Monitor project performance, risks and deliverables to support proactive decision-making.
  • Manage resource planning and prioritization for optimal execution.
• Resource Management
  • Provide management support to the PMO team, including skills and capability development, task allocation, objective setting and training.
• Planning, Performance & Risk Management
  • Support integrated project planning, scheduling and performance tracking.
  • Oversee identification and mitigation of risks, maintaining accurate risk registers and action plans.
  • Implement lessons learned and improvement actions across programs.
  • Management of Travel & Living requirements.
• Relational Contracting & Communications
  • Facilitate effective communications between leadership, engineering, operations, and the Customer.
  • Promote transparency and clarity in program communications.
  • Author and maintain a Relationship Management Plan and Relationship Charter.
  • Plan, develop, implement and measure a Relational Contracting culture within the team and the Enterprise.
  • Management and facilitation of Lessons Learned sessions - ensuring a Lessons Learned culture is embedded within the Program.
• Training & Capability Development
  • Design and deliver training to strengthen project management capability across the programs.
  • Mentor project managers and coordinators in governance, planning, and risk management best practices.
  • Build a culture of knowledge sharing and professional growth within the PMO.
• Continuous Improvement & Innovation
  • Drive automation, standardization, and digital transformation within PMO operations.
  • Enhance program analytics and reporting using tools such as Power BI.
  • Champion process optimization and operational excellence initiatives.

• Degree or diploma in Business Management/ Admin or relevant field, and/or similar proven experience.
• Certified Practicing Project Manager or equivalent (IPMA and/or PMP certification).
• At least 10 years of experience supporting or managing complex projects.
• Demonstrated experience working in a PMO within a growing, fast-paced program, particularly in the Defence and Aerospace sectors.
• An extensive track record of building strong relationships and influencing key stakeholders in complex environments.
• Prior experience coaching and developing less-experienced team members.
• Comprehensive understanding of generic processes and techniques used to schedule Program activities (WBS, OBS, milestones,…