Job Description:
Your Impact
We have an exciting opportunity for a Manufacturing Project Manager to join our Operations team in Luton. These roles sit within a key Lines of Business: Surveillance and Protection Technologies or Combat Air.
This is a high-impact role at the heart of our manufacturing operations. You will lead a cross-functional Integrated Project Team (IPT), acting as the critical interface between Manufacturing and the wider business. Your focus will be to ensure robust planning, effective resource management, and successful delivery across the product portfolio.
If you are passionate about operational excellence, continuous improvement and leading high-performing teams, we would love to hear from you.
What you will do as Manufacturing Project Manager:
Lead and coordinate a cross-functional Integrated Project Team to deliver manufacturing objectives
Manage manufacturing budgets and risk provisions across the full project lifecycle
Drive Manufacturing input into bid activities for new business opportunities
Manage resource and capacity plans to ensure successful product delivery and support
Champion continuous improvement initiatives to reduce lead times, increase throughput and deliver cost efficiencies
Monitor and review production trends to ensure early warning systems are in place to de-risk potential delivery and quality issues
Regularly review expenditure on labour and material to ensure efficient and appropriate usage, aligned with sales forecasts and project performance reviews
Champion and facilitate a culture of continuous improvement
Optimise WIP and stock holdings to maximise cash flow while maintaining delivery of products in line with business requirements
Drive inventory optimisation in line with Lean Manufacturing principles, Line of Business requirements and site targets
Empower teams to find, analyse and robustly solve manufacturing and supply chain challenges
Work closely with the Integrated Project Teams and Commercial & Finance functions for optimal demand & supply management
Prepare and present business reports as required by IPT and/or business area
Build strong, collaborative relationships across internal functions and with external stakeholders
What you'll bring:
Proven experience in project, operational and budget management within a manufacturing environment
Experience within the defence or aerospace sectors
Strong understanding of Life Cycle Management processes, including Manufacturing Maturity Reviews
Experience of delivering operational improvements in a manufacturing environment
Degree or HND in a relevant discipline (or equivalent experience)
APM PMQ/PPQ, PRINCE2 or equivalent qualification
Experience using ERP systems (SAP) and PLM systems (Teamcenter Unified)
Strong understanding of manufacturing supply and demand dynamics
You’ll also demonstrate:
Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and empower teams
Sound knowledge and understanding of manufacturing theory and practice
Ability to delegate tasks effectively to the wider team
The ability to drive change and deliver results in complex environments
Customer focus with strong commercial awareness and financial acumen
Emotional intelligence and cultural awareness
This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.
Security Clearance
You must be eligible for full security clearance. For more information and guidance please visit : https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels
Why join us
At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.
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