At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead international projects in the marine and defence sector, ensuring timely and budget-friendly delivery.
- Company: JFD is a global leader in underwater capabilities for commercial and defence markets.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 26 days holiday, hybrid work, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Opportunities for development and progression in a supportive culture.
- Why this job: Join a high-performing team and contribute to cutting-edge underwater defence technologies.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior project management and knowledge of defence contracting required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Senior Project Manager
Inchinnan, Glasgow | Permanent, Hybrid
Please note that this role requires security checks.
The Role
The Senior Project Manager will lead complex projects through the full NPD (New Product Design) lifecycle, ensuring delivery in line with the JFS Project Delivery Process while guiding multidisciplinary teams to successful outcomes.
They will apply strong governance, financial control, stakeholder engagement, and risk management to drive projects of high complexity, leading a global cross‑functional team to deliver on time, on budget, and to the full satisfaction of customers and internal stakeholders.
This role would split time between Glasgow and Aberdeen, regularly spending time in Aberdeen weekly. The role will include national and international travel on an ad‑hoc basis to JFD locations.
Candidates should hold, or be able to obtain, SC‑level security clearance and ideally bring an awareness of maritime and defence standards, including international quality and safety requirements. A recognised Project Management qualification from a reputable association is essential.
What you’ll be doing
- Manage and deliver projects independently across the full lifecycle, following JFS governance and reporting requirements.
- Provide confident leadership to multidisciplinary teams, driving the delivery of complex or high‑value projects.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.
- Stay proactive in identifying risks and opportunities, putting plans in place to protect or enhance project outcomes.
- Manage project budgets, forecasts, and cashflow, ensuring invoicing and payments are completed on time and in line with contract terms.
- Forecast resource needs and allocate teams effectively to keep projects running smoothly.
- Oversee contractual obligations, review contract terms, and highlight any operational risks early.
- Carry out risk and opportunity assessments, implementing contingency plans and benefits‑realisation actions where needed.
- Manage the change control process, including reviewing and assessing scope changes.
- Capture lessons learned and use them to support continuous improvement across future projects.
What we’re looking for
- Adaptable leader with a strong track record of delivering on commitments and building long‑lasting internal and external relationships.
- Confident working and communicating with the Senior Leadership Team.
- Clear, influential communicator with a solid commitment to safety leadership.
- Experienced in taking NPD projects from concept through gated processes to successful market launch.
- Strong mechanical engineering and manufacturing background, with a focus on robust design, efficient production, and Design for Manufacture.
- Proven ability to identify and reduce technical and manufacturing risks across the full product lifecycle.
- Skilled at aligning cross‑functional teams to ensure design intent matches production capability and business objectives.
- Confident in developing and managing project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resources.
- Maintains awareness of market and industry trends that impact product development and manufacturing.
- Project Management Qualification, APM, Prince2.
Why join us?
- Early finish on Fridays.
- Competitive salary and benefits package aligned with experience (Private Medical Insurance, Life Assurance, Cycle to work scheme, Company Pension, etc.).
- Clear pathways for career development and organisational visibility.
- Inclusive and supportive culture that values individual contributions.
- Meaningful work with impact across safety, innovation, and global operations.
About Us
James Fisher is a global engineering services company operating across Energy, Defence, and Maritime Transport. With a strong heritage in maritime operations, we now deliver innovative solutions in challenging environments. Our One James Fisher strategy is focused on building a unified, sustainable business within the Blue Economy, driving progress through technology, expertise, and collaboration.
James Fisher Defence (JFD), part of the James Fisher Group, is a global leader in underwater capability, delivering cutting‑edge diving, submarine rescue, and hyperbaric solutions to both commercial and defence markets. Operating worldwide, JFD is the foremost provider of submarine rescue services and a trusted name in submarine escape training. We’re also at the forefront of hyperbaric rescue innovation and a leading supplier of advanced diving equipment and saturation systems across the industry.
Visit our website at: Home | James Fisher and Sons plc
For more information about our values and behaviours, follow the link: About us | James Fisher and Sons plc
Explore more about JFD
If this sounds like the ideal next step in your career, then click ‘apply’ now!
Due to the volume of applications, we receive for our vacancies, on occasion applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment.
James Fisher and Sons are committed to taking positive action on diversity and strongly encourage applications for candidates from all backgrounds. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and recognise that our success depends on our talented and diverse workforce.
Senior Project Manager in Inchinnan employer: James Fisher and Sons plc
James Fisher and Sons plc is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Westhill, Aberdeen or Inchinnan, Glasgow, where innovation thrives. With competitive salaries, early Fridays, and a strong emphasis on employee growth and support, we foster a culture that values collaboration and creativity, making it an ideal place for professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in product development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Project Manager in Inchinnan
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with JFD's projects and their impact on the defence sector. Understanding their flagship programmes and recent innovations will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their mission during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the marine and defence sectors, especially those who have worked with JFD or similar companies. Engaging with industry contacts can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with international project management and how you've navigated complex stakeholder relationships. Highlighting specific examples will demonstrate your capability to manage high-value projects effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and challenges in the defence industry, particularly regarding underwater capabilities. This knowledge will not only enhance your discussions but also show your commitment to the field and JFD's objectives.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Project Manager in Inchinnan
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in project management, particularly within the marine or defence sectors. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead complex projects and manage stakeholder relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying to JFD and how your skills align with the role of Senior Project Manager. Mention your experience with international defence contracting and your ability to adapt to various situations.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Include any qualifications in project management from reputable associations. If you have experience with UK and International Defence standards, make sure to mention this as it is crucial for the role.
Showcase Communication Skills:In your application, emphasise your communication skills and ability to engage with senior military personnel. Provide examples of how you've effectively managed conflicts and maintained strong relationships with stakeholders in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons plc
✨Research JFD and the Defence Sector
Before your interview, take some time to understand JFD's role in the underwater capability market and their specific projects. Familiarise yourself with recent developments in the defence sector, especially those related to underwater technologies, as this will show your genuine interest and preparedness.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
As a Senior Project Manager, you'll need to showcase your leadership skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led complex projects in the past, particularly in the marine or defence sectors. Highlight your ability to manage teams, resolve conflicts, and deliver results under pressure.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to be asked about your knowledge of project management methodologies and defence contracting terms. Brush up on relevant standards and regulations, and be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance throughout a project's lifecycle. This will demonstrate your expertise and attention to detail.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you've managed stakeholder relationships and communicated project statuses in previous roles. Use clear examples to illustrate your ability to adapt your communication style to suit different audiences, especially senior military personnel.
