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- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in advanced manufacturing and engineering for luxury vehicle programmes.
- Company: Top-tier consultancy with a focus on cutting-edge automotive solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Short-term project with potential for future opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on product development in the automotive sector.
- Qualifications: Director-level experience in consultancy and expertise in NPD/NPI optimisation.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
One of our leading consultancies are seeking a Director-level Consultant to join the team to support on a project with a client in the advanced manufacturing and engineering sector. You will lead the direction and delivery of a New Product Development (NPD) acceleration programme for a complex, low-volume platform manufacturer, working closely with senior leadership and engineering teams. You will report into the executive leadership team, with the objective of optimising product development performance, governance, and cross-functional integration.
Responsibilities
- Advise senior management teams on optimising NPD and NPI processes for complex, low-volume (luxury) vehicle programmes
- Design and implement Stage-Gate frameworks and Chief Engineer governance models
- Support executive stakeholders across automotive, aerospace, marine, and defence sectors
- Lead modular architecture and platform strategy transformations with engineering functions
- Apply QFD, MFD, and DSM methodologies to enhance cross-functional product integration
- Deliver platform rationalisation initiatives across portfolios of 10-20+ product variants
- Guide PLM and digital thread enhancements
- Translate capability gaps into prioritised and costed investment roadmaps
- Bridge engineering and leadership teams through structured, data-driven decision-making support
- Lead end-to-end transformation programmes and ensure sustained adoption beyond initial delivery
Requirements
- Proven experience operating at Director level within a top-tier consultancy
- Strong track record advising on NPD/NPI optimisation within complex, low-volume manufacturing environments
- Deep expertise in product development governance frameworks such as Stage-Gate and Engineer models
- Experience working across sectors such as automotive, aerospace, marine, or defence
- Demonstrated capability in modular architecture, platform strategy, and engineering transformation
- Practical application of QFD, MFD, DSM, and other systems engineering methodologies
- Experience delivering rationalisation programmes across diverse product portfolios
- Strong knowledge of PLM systems and digital thread technologies
- Ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders and translate technical insights into strategic action
- Experience leading large-scale transformation programmes with measurable, sustained outcomes
Details
- Start date: Mid-May 2026
- Duration: 4-6 Weeks
- Day rate: LTD
- Location: Client site visits + events
Director (Manufacturing - Automotive) employer: Freshminds Interim
Contact Detail:
Freshminds Interim Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director (Manufacturing - Automotive)
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the automotive and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your experience with NPD and NPI optimisation. Share specific examples of how you've transformed processes in previous roles. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
✨Prepare for the Interview
Do your homework on the company and the specific challenges they face in the advanced manufacturing sector. Prepare thoughtful questions that show you’re genuinely interested in their operations. We love candidates who come prepared and ready to engage in meaningful discussions!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we often have exclusive opportunities listed there that you won’t find anywhere else. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Director (Manufacturing - Automotive)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Director in Manufacturing and Engineering. Highlight your experience with NPD/NPI optimisation and any relevant frameworks like Stage-Gate. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
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 role. Share specific examples of your past successes in complex, low-volume manufacturing environments. Let us know how you can add value to our team!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Director, we need to see your leadership chops! In your application, mention experiences where you've led teams or projects, especially in cross-functional settings. We love candidates who can bridge gaps between engineering and management.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining the StudySmarter family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Freshminds Interim
✨Know Your NPD Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on New Product Development (NPD) and New Product Introduction (NPI) processes. Be ready to discuss specific frameworks like Stage-Gate and how you've applied them in past roles. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the concepts, but that you can implement them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Cross-Functional Experience
Prepare examples of how you've successfully integrated engineering teams with senior leadership in previous projects. Highlight your experience in modular architecture and platform strategy transformations, as this is crucial for the role. Use data-driven results to back up your claims.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you’ve influenced senior stakeholders in the past. Be ready to share stories where you translated complex technical insights into strategic actions. This will demonstrate your ability to bridge gaps between engineering and leadership teams, which is key for this position.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Practice articulating your thought process when faced with challenges in product development governance or rationalisation initiatives. This will help you convey your strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.