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- Tasks: Lead complex projects in a fast-paced defence manufacturing environment.
- Company: Established Defence manufacturing business with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and exposure to high-profile programmes.
- Why this job: Take ownership of impactful projects and collaborate with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in project management within technical or engineering sectors.
- Other info: On-site role in Poole with opportunities for UK travel and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Fortress Recruit is working with a well-established Defence manufacturing business to appoint a Project Manager, based out of their site in Poole. This is a key delivery role responsible for leading complex, new-development projects within a highly regulated environment. You’ll take ownership of the full project lifecycle - from late development stages through qualification and into production - ensuring delivery to fixed deadlines. This is not a traditional, process-only PM role; it requires a hands-on, dynamic individual who thrives in a fast-paced, customer-driven setting.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the planning, execution and closure of assigned projects, from development through to production
- Taking full ownership of scope, change management and change control in response to evolving customer requirements
- Managing strict, non-negotiable delivery deadlines and driving rapid response to emerging issues
- Acting as the primary customer contact, managing expectations and maintaining strong working relationships
- Planning, monitoring and controlling project costs, including revenue and cost forecasting
- Preparing regular budget, schedule and milestone reports for internal and external stakeholders
- Coordinating cross-functional teams to ensure technical, documentation and contractual requirements are met
- Driving continuous improvement across project controls, reporting and delivery processes
To be considered for this role, you’ll have:
- 5+ years’ project management experience within a technical or engineering defence environment
- Experience delivering complex new product development or bespoke manufacturing projects through the full design lifecycle
- Strong capability in change management and configuration control
- Commercial awareness and confidence managing customer-facing delivery
- A driven, autonomous approach with strong analytical skills and an inquisitive mindset
- Comfortable making informed decisions in a fast-moving environment and taking full ownership of outcomes
- APM PMQ or PRINCE2 Practitioner
- Degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent experience
This is an excellent opportunity to join a technically complex organisation delivering critical, high-profile programmes. You’ll gain broad exposure across multiple business units, working closely with engineering, operations and commercial teams and will be trusted to take ownership and drive delivery. A competitive salary and flexible working is on offer. This role is based on-site in Poole with UK travel as required. Eligibility for SC Clearance is essential (5 years' UK residency without visa or sponsorship requirement).
For a confidential conversation or to request a full job description, please send your full CV or call Becki directly.
Project Manager in Poole employer: Fortress Recruit Limited
Contact Detail:
Fortress Recruit Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager in Poole
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Project Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your project management skills and experiences. Be ready to discuss how you've handled complex projects, change management, and tight deadlines. Show them you’re the hands-on, dynamic individual they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and career goals. Use our website to find roles that excite you and match your experience. Tailor your approach to each company to stand out!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Mention something specific from your conversation to show your genuine interest in the role and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager in Poole
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Project Manager role. Highlight your project management experience in technical or engineering environments, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications like APM PMQ or PRINCE2.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this hands-on, dynamic role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed complex projects and driven improvements in previous positions.
Showcase Your Soft Skills: In a fast-paced, customer-driven setting, soft skills are just as important as technical ones. Make sure to highlight your ability to manage customer expectations, build strong relationships, and make informed decisions under pressure.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fortress Recruit Limited
✨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 hands-on experience and ability to lead complex projects.
✨Demonstrate Change Management Skills
Since this role requires strong change management capabilities, prepare examples that highlight your experience in adapting to evolving customer requirements. Discuss how you’ve successfully managed scope changes and maintained project momentum despite challenges.
✨Showcase Your Customer Relationship Skills
As the primary customer contact, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to manage expectations and build strong relationships. Prepare anecdotes that illustrate how you’ve effectively communicated with clients and resolved issues to their satisfaction.
✨Be Ready for Technical Discussions
Given the technical nature of the role, brush up on relevant engineering concepts and be prepared to discuss how you’ve coordinated cross-functional teams. Highlight your understanding of project controls and how you’ve driven continuous improvement in past roles.