At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cross-functional teams to drive manufacturing excellence and deliver impactful projects.
- Company: Join Leonardo, a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and access to 4,000+ online courses.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a dynamic environment while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management within manufacturing; degree or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Manufacturing Project Manager to join our Operations team in Edinburgh. This role sits within a key Line of Business: Customer Support and Service Solutions - Typhoon. This is a high-impact role at the heart of our manufacturing operations. You will lead a cross-functional Integrated Project Team (IPT), acting as the critical interface between Manufacturing and the wider business. Your focus will be to ensure robust planning, effective resource management, and successful delivery across the product portfolio. If you are passionate about operational excellence, continuous improvement and leading high-performing teams, we would love to hear from you.
What you will do as Manufacturing Project Manager:
- Lead and coordinate a cross-functional Integrated Project Team to deliver manufacturing objectives
- Manage manufacturing budgets and risk provisions across the full project lifecycle
- Drive Manufacturing input into bid activities for new business opportunities
- Manage resource and capacity plans to ensure successful product delivery and support
- Champion continuous improvement initiatives to reduce lead times, increase throughput and deliver cost efficiencies
- Monitor and review production trends to ensure early warning systems are in place to de-risk potential delivery and quality issues
- Regularly review expenditure on labour and material to ensure efficient and appropriate usage, aligned with sales forecasts and project performance reviews
- Champion and facilitate a culture of continuous improvement
- Optimise WIP and stock holdings to maximise cash flow while maintaining delivery of products in line with business requirements
- Drive inventory optimisation in line with Lean Manufacturing principles, Line of Business requirements and site targets
- Empower teams to find, analyse and robustly solve manufacturing and supply chain challenges
- Work closely with the Integrated Project Teams and Commercial & Finance functions for optimal demand & supply management
- Prepare and present business reports as required by IPT and/or business area
- Build strong, collaborative relationships across internal functions and with external stakeholders
What you'll bring:
- Proven experience in project, operational and budget management within a manufacturing environment
- Experience within the defence or aerospace sectors
- Strong understanding of Life Cycle Management processes, including Manufacturing Maturity Reviews
- Experience of delivering operational improvements in a manufacturing environment
- Degree or HND in a relevant discipline (or equivalent experience)
- APM PMQ/PPQ, PRINCE2 or equivalent qualification
- Experience using ERP systems (SAP) and PLM systems (Teamcenter Unified)
- Strong understanding of manufacturing supply and demand dynamics
You’ll also demonstrate:
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and empower teams
- Sound knowledge and understanding of manufacturing theory and practice
- Ability to delegate tasks effectively to the wider team
- The ability to drive change and deliver results in complex environments
- Customer focus with strong commercial awareness and financial acumen
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Emotional intelligence and cultural awareness
Security Clearance: You must be eligible for full security clearance.
Why join us:
At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.
- Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
- Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
- Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
- Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
- Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
- Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
- Tailored Perks: Spend up to 500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
- Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options.
For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website. Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety. At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers.
If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know. Be part of something bigger - apply now!
At Leonardo UK, we believe that a diverse and inclusive work environment unlocks our people’s full potential and drives innovation and creativity. We work hard to offer a welcoming, accessible and inclusive place to work for all of our people, creating a culture where everyone can thrive, feel safe and have a sense of belonging and connection. This is a great opportunity to bring your talents and form an integral part of Leonardo’s future. We can help you develop your skills and offer great opportunities to develop and grow, so why not join us.
Manufacturing Project Manager in Edinburgh employer: Leonardo DRS
Leonardo is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation meets collaboration. As a Campaign Manager, you'll thrive in a culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth, supported by comprehensive benefits including an award-winning pension scheme and access to over 4,000 online courses. With flexible working options and a commitment to inclusion, Leonardo empowers you to make a meaningful impact in the defence and aerospace sector while enjoying a fulfilling work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Project Manager in Edinburgh
✨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 Leonardo DRS, 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 Manufacturing Project Manager in Edinburgh
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 Leonardo DRS 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 Leonardo DRS
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Leonardo DRS, 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 Leonardo DRS 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.
