At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex NPD projects, guiding teams to successful outcomes and managing project lifecycles.
- Company: James Fisher, a global engineering services company with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, early finishes on Fridays, private medical insurance, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for national and international travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in safety and innovation while working in a supportive and inclusive culture.
- Qualifications: Project Management qualification and experience in NPD projects with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
About 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. You will apply strong governance, financial control, stakeholder engagement, and risk management to drive projects of high complexity. As Senior Project Manager, you will lead a global cross‑functional team to deliver on time, on budget, and to the full satisfaction of customers and internal stakeholders. Based in Aberdeen with a hybrid working approach, the role will include national and international travel on an ad-hoc basis.
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 SLT.
- 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.
EEO Statement: 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 NPD Project Leader – Global, Hybrid, SC Cleared in Scotland employer: JamesFisher
James Fisher is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Aberdeen with a hybrid approach that promotes work-life balance. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive health packages, and clear career development pathways, all within a culture that values diversity and individual contributions. Join us to engage in meaningful projects that have a real impact on safety and innovation across global operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior NPD Project Leader – Global, Hybrid, SC Cleared in Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and recent developments in the maritime and defence sectors. We want you to walk into that interview room feeling confident and ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed multidisciplinary teams and delivered complex projects. We believe that demonstrating your experience in leading teams will set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team at James Fisher.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior NPD Project Leader – Global, Hybrid, SC Cleared in Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Project Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing complex NPD projects and any relevant qualifications like APM or Prince2. We want to see how your skills align 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. Mention your leadership style, your experience with multidisciplinary teams, and how you handle project risks. Let us know what makes you tick!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past projects, focus on your achievements. Did you deliver a project under budget or ahead of schedule? Share those success stories! We love to see how you've made an impact in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at JamesFisher
✨Know Your NPD Lifecycle
Make sure you’re well-versed in the New Product Design lifecycle. Brush up on the JFS Project Delivery Process and be ready to discuss how you've successfully led projects through each stage. This will show your understanding of the role and your ability to manage complex projects.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience with multidisciplinary teams. Think about times when you’ve driven a project to success, managed conflicts, or built strong relationships with stakeholders. This will demonstrate your capability to lead effectively in a global context.
✨Be Ready for Risk Management Questions
Expect questions around risk management and how you’ve identified and mitigated risks in past projects. Have specific examples ready that illustrate your proactive approach to managing risks and ensuring project success.
✨Understand the Industry Standards
Familiarise yourself with maritime and defence standards, as well as international quality and safety requirements. Being able to discuss these topics will show your awareness of the industry and your commitment to delivering high-quality results.
