Software Engineering Manager

* Please only apply if you have an extensive background in either Aerospace, Defence or Military this is an essential requirement*

A Defence prime based in the Reading area are looking to onboard a Software Engineering Manager with extensive experience in the Aerospace/Aviation or Defence environment to support the design and build of a new world-class Software capability function within a complex, regulated aerospace/defence environment.

This is a strategic leadership role responsible for enabling secure, compliant, model-based software delivery across multi-partner, international programmes. You will operate at the intersection of engineering excellence, regulatory governance, and large-scale digital transformation.

• Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline
• Extensive experience as a Software Manager (or similar level) working in Aerospace and/or Defence environments – (This is essential)
• Software architecture experience
• Proven experience in MBSD and digital engineering
• Strong understanding of DO-178C (and associated supplements)
• Experience defining and implementing software engineering tool chains at scale
• Demonstrated leadership across multi-partner, supplier-integrated environments
• Eligible for (or holding) appropriate security clearance

• Architect and implement an enterprise-grade software environment
• Define and standardise tool chains, methods, and engineering practices across distributed teams and partners
• Lead adoption of MBSD and Digital Engineering practices
• Ensure compliance with aerospace and defence regulatory frameworks (DO-178C and supplements)
• Integrate suppliers and partners into a cohesive, traceable digital ecosystem
• Manage budgets, vendor relationships, and capability roadmaps
• Drive alignment across engineering, programme leadership, and senior stakeholders
• Enable full digital thread continuity from system requirements through to certified software artefacts

This is a high-impact leadership role with visibility across senior engineering and programme governance forums.