Change Manager Talent & Culture (Engineering Operations)

Location: Hengelo, Netherlands Change Manager Talent & Culture Job Description Thales Netherlands, part of the global Thales Group, is a high-tech leader in the design and deployment of advanced technologies across defense, security, and aerospace. With a strong culture of innovation and collaboration, we deliver mission-critical systems that protect people and information in an increasingly connected world. We are therefore leading the digital transformation, focusing on artificial intelligence, big-data & data analytics, connectivity, mobility and internet of things and cybersecurity. The mission of our Engineering Operations and Digital Transformation department (EO&DT) is to boost Engineering performance by strengthening processes, practices, tooling, metrics, and culture, and by driving digital transformation and innovation. For this department we are looking for a Change Manager. About your future job As Change Manager, you play a key role in large transformation initiatives within our Engineering Operations and Digital Transformation department. You lead the change and communication strategy, ensuring employees and stakeholders are fully engaged throughout the change. Working closely with project managers and stream leads, you drive clear, consistent messaging and help structure communication that resonates. You assess stakeholder impact, anticipate and manage resistance, and promote strong engagement and adoption across the organization. In this role, you proactively identify risks and gaps, translate complex topics into accessible communication, and coordinate key events to maintain a strong internal presence. You operate at the heart of the Engineering Operations & Digital Transformation department, connecting people, projects and communication to help make transformations successful! The main tasks and responsibilities are: Develop and maintain a change and communication plans for large initiatives in line with team objectives Organize and coordinate change‑related events such as roadshows and workshops to drive visibility and engagement Increase awareness and reduce resistance by delivering clear, consistent, and targeted messaging Advise EO&DT department leads on effective communication strategies towards the organization Support project managers and stream leads in informing and engaging stakeholders based on stakeholder analyses Develop creative ideas and initiatives to increase engagement and adoption Ensure a strong internal online presence through intranet pages, news articles, and regular updates Proactively identify potential gaps, issues, or resistance within the organization and escalate when needed Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders across business and IT Why you’d be a good match Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Communication, Change Management, Project Management, or a related field Proven experience in Change Management within complex organizations, preferably in a technology, engineering, or high‑tech environment Strong ability to structure and execute change and communication initiatives Experienced in stakeholder analysis, resistance management, and driving adoption and engagement Strong advisory and coaching skills, able to challenge and support stakeholders Excellent written and verbal communication skills in Dutch and English Well‑organized, proactive, and hands‑on Creative and practical in developing communication formats, events, and engagement initiatives Dutch nationality is required due to security and defense project regulations. Security screening (AIVD-B) is mandatory. Fluent in Dutch and English. What's in it for you A challenging job in a great team within our high-tech, innovative work environment. Includes the freedom for taking initiative and testing 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 when you want to be able to do your work as well and efficiently as possible. Within Thales we implement hybrid working, where you can, for example, work from home two days a week if your role allows it. A good salary, fitting travel allowance, and the ability to personalize your employment conditions: for instance, you can trade days off for internet costs, our bicycle plan, company fitness and relocation costs. 40 days off per year (PTO). Interested? Apply now! Click on the button below to upload your profile and show your interest. To ensure that we are a good match, we may ask you to participate in an assessment. A government clearance will be requested as part of standard Thales procedures. Diversity Statement We actively support a working pattern that suits your lifestyle and helps you reach your ambitions. That means that 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. This vacancy requires a security clearance which can require further evidence to be provided. For further details of the evidence required to apply for security clearance please refer to the General Intelligence and Security Service. #LI-AB4