At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver complex tooling projects while managing cross-functional teams.
- Company: Join DFS Composites Ltd, a leader in sustainable composite solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career advancement opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in project management with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 52000 £ per year.
Location: Lee-on-the-Solent, United Kingdom
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Reports To: Program Manager
Work Location: In person
Pay: £45,000.00-£52,000.00 per year
About Us
DFS Composites Ltd designs and manufactures cutting‑edge composite tooling solutions for a global customer base across the wind energy and aerospace sectors. With a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, we pride ourselves on delivering high-performance engineering solutions that support the future of clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
The Role
We’re seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to successfully deliver tooling and fixture projects. In this senior role, you will be responsible for the end‑to‑end delivery of complex, high‑value projects while overseeing cross‑functional teams. You will be expected to proactively anticipate risks and develop strategic mitigation plans before they become blockers. You’ll report directly to the Program Manager and play a critical role in delivery of multiple projects within the UK portfolio.
Key Responsibilities
- Successful delivery of multiple tooling projects from concept to delivery, ensuring they meet quality, timeline, and budget requirements.
- Stakeholder & Vendor Management, act as primary liaison with stakeholders, external suppliers, and cross‑functional teams to align project deliverables.
- Act as a senior escalation point for internal and client‑facing project issues.
- Ensure adherence to best practices in program governance, risk management, and stakeholder engagement are consistently applied across all projects.
- Drive standardisation and continuous improvement of project management processes and tools.
- Collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain functions to ensure seamless project execution.
- Deliver regular reporting, metrics, and insights to the Program Manager.
- Facilitating discussions with senior stakeholders to drive decision‑making and manage expectations within the project.
- Mentoring and supervising mid and junior level Project Managers, fostering professional growth, and sharing best practices across the organisation.
- Manage substantial budgets and providing accurate financial reporting throughout the project life cycle.
- Mentoring of Junior level staff as required.
Requirements
- 5+ years of project management experience in manufacturing, tooling, or complex engineering environments
- Proven leadership experience managing and developing remote or multinational cross functional teams
- Strong understanding of tooling, composites, or precision engineering processes
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead across cultures and disciplines
- Highly organised with expertise in project planning, cost control, project governance and risk mitigation
- Comfortable working across multiple time zones and adapting to shifting client needs
- Expert with various project management software & tools i.e. Jira and MSP
Preferred Qualifications/Experience
- Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, or related technical field.
- PMP, PRINCE2, Agile or other formal project management certification.
- Familiarity with CAD/CAM, CNC processes, and composite tooling techniques.
- Experience in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, renewables or industrial composites.
- Hands‑on experience working with global suppliers and manufacturing teams.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary (based on experience)
- A key leadership role in a technically advanced and growing business
- This is a UK role with a UK right to work required
- Supportive and collaborative work culture focused on innovation and performance
Senior Project Manager employer: DFS Composites Limited
At DFS Composites Ltd, we are committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive work environment in Lee-on-the-Solent, where innovation meets sustainability. As a mid-level Project Manager, you will not only contribute to cutting-edge projects in the wind energy and aerospace sectors but also benefit from our strong emphasis on employee growth and development. With competitive salaries, a collaborative culture, and opportunities to work on impactful engineering solutions, we offer a rewarding career path for those looking to make a difference in advanced manufacturing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Project Manager
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like DFS Composites Limited, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to DFS Composites Limited specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at DFS Composites Limited
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with DFS Composites Limited, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like DFS Composites Limited value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
