At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting automotive projects from concept to launch and make things happen.
- Company: A forward-thinking automotive manufacturer focused on quality and smart project delivery.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Deliver real automotive programmes and be part of something meaningful.
- Qualifications: Proven project management experience in the automotive sector and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Located in Buckingham, with great career growth opportunities.
If you're after a Project Manager role that actually means something, here it is. You'll lead programmes that move from concept to production - not PowerPoint projects that never leave the spreadsheet. You'll be trusted to run the show: keep suppliers in check, manage budgets that don't magically grow, and make sure deadlines don't drift into next year. In short - deliver projects properly.
What You'll Do
- Take ownership of cross‑functional automotive projects from concept through to launch
- Act as the main customer contact - the person who makes things happen, not excuses
- Keep budgets tight and forecasts honest (prototypes, tooling, costs, the lot)
- Build and maintain realistic timing plans and hold people accountable to them
- Spot risks early, fix them fast, and don't hide the bad news
- Oversee pre‑production builds and coordinate manufacturing and engineering activities
What You'll Bring
- Proven automotive project management experience, ideally within a Tier 1 supplier
- A technical degree or equivalent hands‑on background in engineering or manufacturing
- Practical project management know‑how (PRINCE2, MS Project etc. are fine, but common sense is better)
- The ability to communicate clearly - with engineers, customers, and senior stakeholders
- A calm head, a bit of backbone, and the ability to keep projects moving when pressure's on
The Company
A long‑established, forward‑thinking automotive manufacturer supplying premium OEMs. They care about doing things properly - quality engineering, smart project delivery, and long‑term partnerships that actually work.
Location
Buckingham - within easy reach of Milton Keynes, Bicester, Banbury, Aylesbury, and the surrounding area.
Interested?
If you're a Project Manager who wants to deliver real automotive programmes - not just talk about them - hit apply. You bring the competence; they'll bring the projects worth owning.
Project Manager employer: Jonathan Lee Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Jonathan Lee Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the automotive industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a Project Manager role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising your storytelling skills. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed projects, kept budgets tight, and tackled risks head-on. We want to hear about your real-world experience, so make it engaging!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values. Check out our website for roles that resonate with your passion for quality engineering and smart project delivery. Tailor your approach to show why you’re the right fit for them.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Use this opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and remind them why you’re the best choice for delivering those automotive programmes.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Project Manager role. Highlight your automotive project management experience and any relevant technical background. We want to see how you’ve delivered projects in the past, so don’t hold back!
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 how you've kept budgets tight and managed timelines effectively. We love a good story that showcases your skills!
Be Honest About Your Skills: When listing your skills, be genuine. If you’ve got practical project management know-how, let us know! We appreciate common sense just as much as formal qualifications, so don’t shy away from sharing your real-world experience.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother 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 – just a few clicks and you’re done!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jonathan Lee Recruitment
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you can discuss specific projects you've managed in detail. Be ready to explain your role, the challenges faced, and how you overcame them. This shows you’re not just a talker but someone who delivers results.
✨Budgeting Brilliance
Since managing budgets is key for this role, prepare to discuss your experience with budget management. Bring examples of how you've kept costs in check and how you’ve handled any budget overruns. This will demonstrate your financial acumen and accountability.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You’ll need to communicate with engineers, customers, and stakeholders, so think about how you can convey complex ideas simply. Role-play with a friend to sharpen your skills.
✨Spotting Risks and Solutions
Be prepared to discuss how you identify and mitigate risks in projects. Think of specific instances where you spotted potential issues early and took action. This will highlight your proactive approach and problem-solving abilities, which are crucial for this role.