At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformative manufacturing projects and drive technology transfer in a regulated environment.
- Company: Reputable consumer health products manufacturer undergoing significant operational change.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team focused on innovation and excellence in consumer health.
- Why this job: Shape the future of manufacturing and make a real impact in a dynamic industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in complex manufacturing projects and formal project management qualifications required.
Location: London (four to five days on site while the programme is established)
Salary: £80,000 to £90,000, plus bonus
Contract: Permanent
About the role
Our client, an established and well regarded name in consumer health products manufacturing, is entering a significant period of operational transformation. Its manufacturing activity (internal production to external manufacturing partners) needs to be analysed and rationalised, and the Project Manager will be central to making that happen. This is not a project coordination or PMO role. The strategy is still developing, and the person appointed will help shape it into a practical, deliverable programme, then personally drive that programme through partner selection, technology transfer, validation, go live and stabilisation.
What you will own
- Assess the current manufacturing model and the options for the future, building business cases and commercial comparisons to support decision making.
- Identify, evaluate and support selection of external manufacturing partners, including due diligence against GMP, quality and capability criteria.
- Own the programme roadmap, governance, budget, risk register and dependencies, reporting to senior stakeholders on a regular cadence.
- Lead technology transfer: process and specification transfer, trial and validation batches, packaging and regulatory continuity, and any dual running needed to protect supply.
- Manage cutover, stabilisation and formal handover to the ongoing operational and quality owners once the transition is complete.
What we need from you
- Proven ownership of a complex manufacturing, site transfer or technology transfer programme, from definition through to delivery, in a regulated manufacturing environment.
- Enough technical understanding of manufacturing and quality systems to engage credibly with Quality, Regulatory and manufacturing specialists, with or without direct CMO or CDMO experience.
- A formal project management qualification (for example APM, PRINCE2 or PMP), with evidence of applying it in practice rather than holding the certificate alone.
- Genuine commercial and financial literacy: comfortable building or interrogating a business case, modelling scenarios and understanding cost implications, not handing the numbers over to Finance.
- Strong stakeholder management and the confidence to challenge a plan or a senior stakeholder when you believe it is wrong, and to explain why.
- Relevant sectors include pharmaceuticals, consumer health, medical devices and MedTech, healthcare products, FMCG, and food, supplements or nutraceuticals. What matters most is the complexity and regulatory demands of the environment you have worked in, rather than an exact sector match.
This role will not suit
A background in general programme or project management, for example in IT, financial services, construction or infrastructure, is not a fit here, however strong the delivery track record, unless it also includes hands-on ownership of a manufacturing, site transfer or technology transfer programme in a regulated environment. Familiarity with project management software or governance frameworks on their own is not what this role is looking for.
Next steps
This search is being handled confidentially on behalf of our client by Tracey Harris at Harris Lord Life Sciences. For a confidential conversation about the role, contact Tracey Harris.
Project Manager in London employer: Harris Lord Recruitment
Join a well-established business in Billingshurst as a Test Technician, where you will thrive in a supportive manufacturing environment that values hands-on experience and technical skill development. With a strong focus on quality and teamwork, this role offers excellent opportunities for personal growth and the chance to contribute to product improvement initiatives. Enjoy a collaborative work culture that encourages learning and innovation, making it an ideal place for those looking to advance their careers in electrical and electronic testing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager in London
✨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 Harris Lord Recruitment, 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 Project Manager in London
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 Harris Lord Recruitment 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 Harris Lord Recruitment
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Harris Lord Recruitment, 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 Harris Lord Recruitment 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.
