Chief Engineer

The Opportunity This is a senior technical leadership role for an experienced engineering professional who wants to shape and lead complex engineering programmes from concept through manufacture, test, installation, and in-service support. You’ll take full ownership of engineering delivery across multiple high-value projects, providing technical authority, strategic direction, and inspirational leadership. You’ll play a critical role in ensuring engineering excellence, managing risk, and driving continuous improvement in a highly regulated, safety-critical environment. What You’ll Be Doing * Lead all engineering activities across the full product lifecycle: design, manufacture, assembly, test, installation, commissioning, and service support * Act as the senior technical authority, accountable for engineering quality, compliance, and gated approvals * Set and execute engineering strategy aligned to programme and business objectives * Manage technical risk, ensuring robust governance, assurance, and sign-off * Drive operational excellence, right-first-time delivery, and continuous improvement * Influence strategic decisions around manufacturing, outsourcing, test capability, and productivity improvements * Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing engineering teams * Collaborate closely with operations, quality, supply chain, and programme leadership * Represent engineering at senior leadership and customer forums What We’re Looking For * Degree-qualified engineer (Chartered status preferred) * Proven experience leading engineering teams within complex, regulated environments * Strong background in mechanical engineering and complex systems (e.g. rotating machinery, gear systems, or similar) * Deep understanding of engineering governance, design assurance, and risk management * Experience working to recognised industry standards (e.g. ISO, AGMA, DIN or similar) * Strong commercial awareness and ability to balance technical, schedule, and cost pressures * Confident leader with the credibility to influence at all levels * Strategic thinker with a hands-on, delivery-focused mindset Why Apply? * Senior leadership role with real technical authority * Opportunity to influence strategy, capability, and long-term engineering direction * Work on complex, high-impact engineering programmes * Lead talented teams in a challenging and rewarding environment Additional Information * Full-time role (37.5 hours per week) * Some UK and occasional international travel * Role subject to right-to-work and security clearance requirements