Interesting work, very slow pace
Pros
The work and challenges available for anyone with ambition are vast in scope. You can build your knowledge and expertise through both your work in almost any way you please. I came through the graduate scheme and your placement outside your department can be with any department willing to take you on in the company, and the support from HR and training opportunities is much better than my current employer. Stevenage and Le Plessis canteens provide the finest work food I have ever eaten (again as much as lifers who have never worked elsewhere may moan otherwise) On site gym is good Overall site is pleasant Vast array of social clubs and sports teams
Cons
A lot of the middle management and lower level execs appear to have got to their positions through time served, rather than ability. Perhaps not surprising for a military contractor with such a good pension scheme that pays good salaries (as much as some employees who have never worked elsewhere may think otherwise), with little true focus on cost and efficiency at operational level. These people are able / allowed to put their own interest ahead of that of both the company or customer. It is difficult to influence or achieve real change. Cost is not of great importance to middle management, also not of great interest to middle management are poor performance of lazy gravy train employees, or excessive expenses. The scale of politics in MBDA UK and between the different national operating companies can at times be demotivating and constraining upon work, but equally is a great challenge for anyone looking to make a long term career in the defence industry (in which politics are of course fundamental and to be expected, but none the less can be grating). For anyone looking for an opportunity to make a lot of money and fade into the background whilst doing very little work, with no repercussions, then maybe MBDA is the perfect company for you, but it is not for me.