Head of Design

We are currently recruiting for a Head of Design to join a busy and expanding Manufacturing Engineering client based near Keighley. Interested candidates must have strong people skills with the ability to communicate across all levels of staff and look to truly educate and develop teams in relation to engineering and design processes. This role will also be part of the senior leadership team on site and as such we are looking for someone with the drive to develop the department further and support strategic business growth.

The role will focus on the management of the full product design lifecycle, ensuring compliance with international standards (ISO9001:2015, Pressure Equipment Directive, CE Mark, API 600, ANSI etc.) and leading a team of experienced designers. You will oversee product development, design documentation, CAD control, continuous improvement and interface with major customers across regulated industries (Oil & Gas / Defence). Candidates will ideally be degree qualified with a background in the Valve Sector. Experience outside of sector will be considered for those with related experience in pressure vessels etc.

Hours: Monday - Friday (36.5 hours per week)

Role Description:

• Oversee the design and development of engineered products to ensure they meet legal, industry and customer requirements.
• Act as the business expert on design standards and provide training and advice to managers and staff.
• Liaise with Production Engineering to ensure products are designed for ease of manufacture.
• Oversee the generation and control of design documentation, drawings and 3D CAD models in line with ISO9001 requirements.
• Review product performance and customer feedback to drive continuous improvement.
• Create and implement CI processes for ongoing development of existing products in line with changing standards and market needs.
• Direct, support and nurture the Design team to ensure all are motivated, trained and meeting departmental KPIs.
• Manage design capacity planning to ensure timely delivery of drawings and contract documentation.
• Identify skill gaps within the department and work with HR to upskill or recruit as needed.
• Liaise with senior management to support strategic planning, accreditation and customer approval processes.
• Interface with external agencies for R&D and design where appropriate.

Skills & Attributes:

• Demonstrable experience within a similar Design Management role within an engineering/manufacturing environment.
• Minimum 10 years experience in pressure vessel/valve design (ball, butterfly, gate, globe, check).
• Strong hands-on SolidWorks 3D capability.
• Exposure to low-volume, high-variety manufacturing and castings.
• Knowledge of industry standards including ISO9001:2015, API Standards, Pressure Equipment Directive, CE Mark.
• Understanding of APQP/FAI processes.
• Ability to coach, train and engage employees.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to present at technical and commercial level.