At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a project-focused engineering team in delivering complex defence and marine projects.
- Company: Dynamic company in the defence sector with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, flexible hours, and a company-matched pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the defence industry while developing your project management skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management within marine or defence environments is essential.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € per year.
We are seeking a proactive and highly organised Senior Contracts Manager to lead a project-focused engineering team. Based in South Shields and reporting to the General Manager, this role is instrumental in planning, coordinating, and delivering complex engineering projects within the defence and marine sector. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing project delivery, ensuring alignment with contract requirements, and working closely with internal teams, OEMs, contractors, and key defence stakeholders to deliver high-quality, compliant, and cost-effective outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the project team, ensuring successful delivery and closeout of technical workstreams
- Oversee planning and execution of upgrade and maintenance programmes, producing detailed work packages and schedules
- Liaise with defence stakeholders to ensure alignment with engineering and regulatory standards
- Coordinate with internal departments, contractors, and OEMs to define scope, budgets, and resource requirements
- Deliver projects from initial request through to completion, ensuring on-time and on-budget performance
- Oversee technical solutions, including vessel upgrades and modifications
- Manage cost estimation, resource planning, and change control processes
- Maintain accurate technical documentation and produce detailed project reports
- Represent the business in client meetings, supported by the wider project team
- Support invoice preparation and commercial discussions with third parties and suppliers
- Ensure all activities meet safety, quality, and statutory compliance standards
- Monitor team performance through KPIs and report regularly to senior leadership
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry standards and classification requirements
- Support continuous improvement initiatives across project delivery
Qualifications & Experience
Essential:
- Proven experience in project or contract management within marine, defence, or engineering environments
- HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical, Marine, Electrical Engineering, or similar
- Experience managing cross-functional teams and multiple technical projects
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
- Project management qualification (e.g. PRINCE2, APM, PMP)
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams, SharePoint)
Desirable:
- Experience supporting defence or government-managed assets
- Knowledge of classification societies, flag state requirements, and regulatory standards
Benefits
- 23 days annual leave (rising to 25 with service), plus bank holidays
- Holiday buy/sell scheme
- Flexible working hours
- Free on-site parking
- Company-matched pension scheme
Project Manager in South Shields employer: Broadreach Recruitment
Join a dynamic and innovative team in South Shields, where we prioritise employee growth and development within the defence and marine sector. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and excellence, offering flexible working hours, a generous holiday scheme, and a company-matched pension plan to ensure a rewarding work-life balance. As a Senior Contracts Manager, you will play a pivotal role in delivering complex projects while enjoying the benefits of a forward-thinking employer committed to your professional success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager in South Shields
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence and marine sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their recent work and challenges in the industry. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your STAR technique for answering behavioural questions. Think of specific situations where you demonstrated leadership or problem-solving skills in project management. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager in South Shields
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Project Manager role. Highlight your experience in project or contract management, especially within marine or defence environments. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team. Mention specific projects you've managed and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your qualifications, like your project management certification (PRINCE2, APM, PMP). We love seeing that you’ve got the formal training to back up your experience!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Broadreach Recruitment
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the projects you've managed in the past. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the outcomes. This will show your potential employer that you have the hands-on experience they’re looking for.
✨Brush Up on Industry Standards
Since this role involves working within the defence and marine sectors, it’s crucial to be familiar with relevant industry standards and regulations. Do some research on classification societies and flag state requirements so you can confidently discuss how you ensure compliance in your projects.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Contracts Manager, you'll need to lead cross-functional teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your communication and stakeholder management skills. Highlight any KPIs you’ve used to monitor team performance and how you’ve driven continuous improvement.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the company’s projects, team dynamics, and future goals. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you determine if the company is the right fit for you.
