Manufacturing Project Manager in Southampton

The Manufacturing Project Manager is responsible for the planning, coordinating, and overseeing of operations programmes throughout the lifecycle of project / group of projects or work package relating to a sales contract with a customer or internal stock delivery. This role ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality and safety standards.

In particular:

• The achievement of the project / group of projects or work package goals during the entire life cycle, ensuring budgets are met and maintaining customer satisfaction.
• Through the coordination of the operations team, the correct execution of the project / group of projects or work package (e.g. management of the overall schedule and cost plan in collaboration with the Project Manager).
• Application of contractual and internal obligations, through the achievement of the financial and deliverable objectives of the project / group of projects or work package.
• The definition and any updates of the project / group of projects or work package content are in line with contractual obligations (and any amendments) or with what has been approved in the case of internal requirements.
• Manage relations with the Customer and internal stakeholders (e.g., communication plan, reporting, escalation process, etc).
• Monitor the project / group of projects or work package performance (physical progress and costs) in collaboration with team members.
• Ensure compliance to the 'Life Cycle Management' process through each phase of the program.
• Ensure project alignment with the appropriate team, responsible for managing delivery of the relevant processes stage (e.g. Product Life Cycle Management, Design Review, etc.).
• Share the programme vision with the appropriate stakeholders, including analysis of the project, helping to provide decision guidance and the timely definition of any corrective actions required.
• Provide relevant information through the bid process to the commercial team, in support of the contractual negotiation phase of a project.
• Apply consistent risk management methodologies through each project / group of projects or work package.
• Define and launch actions (with owners) aimed at the improvement of project performance.
• Manage project / program closure and Lessons Learned activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Management of agreed operations budget and risk provisions through all phases of the project lifecycle.
• Ownership of Operations input to Bid activities for new business opportunities.
• Solid knowledge of and adherence to Life Cycle Management processes.
• Planning and scheduling of resources required to successfully deliver and support products.
• Leadership of continuous improvement activities in support of business objectives.
• Understanding the mechanics and factors affecting manufacturing supply and demand.
• Monitoring and review of production trends to ensure early warning systems are in place to de-risk delivery and quality.
• Effective management of available resources to achieve desired outcomes.
• Regular review of expenditure on labour and material to ensure most efficient and appropriate usage of both in line with sales forecasts & project performance reviews.
• Championing and facilitation of a culture of continuous improvement initiatives in manufacturing processes.
• Optimisation of WIP and stockholdings to ensure maximum cash flow whilst retaining desired finished products in line with business requirements and strategies.
• Driving Inventory optimisation throughout the life cycle in accordance with lean manufacturing principles, Line of Business requirements and Site targets.
• Empowering teams to find, analyse and solve production and supply chain problems with corrective actions.
• Managing capacity plans in line with business area expectations.
• Working closely with the IPTs, plus Commercial & Finance functions for optimal demand & supply management.

Essential Requirements:

• Strong project management and organisational skills.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and operations.
• Excellent leadership and team coordination abilities.
• Experience of different Project Management techniques and when/how to use them.
• Experience in developing and maintaining Internal / External Customer and Supplier relationships.
• Proactive, dynamic individual with proven stakeholder management, organisational, interpersonal, problem solving, and communication skills.
• Strong experience of using MS Office applications, especially Excel is required.
• Evidence of ability and planning to work both autonomously and within a team environment.
• Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies (e.g., Agile, Lean, Six Sigma).
• Energetic, team player, and keen to develop further.
• Capable of obtaining an SC clearance.
• Familiarity with SAP (training can be provided).
• Experience within planning, engineering, procurement, and/or finance functions.
• Experience of Military, Security, Government, or Industrial projects.

Behaviours Required in Role:

• Energetic, team player with strong stakeholder management, organisational, interpersonal, problem solving, and communication skills.
• Leads by Example.
• Owns & takes responsibility for the life cycle of projects/program/group of projects within your defined sector / product portfolio.
• Challenge poor performance, promote, acknowledge & reward exceptional performance.
• Encourage continuous improvement.
• Embrace change.

Why Join Leonardo:

• Flexible working: Leonardo have introduced a new model of work for our people in the UK, called Custom Working. This innovative approach will see our teams empowered to decide how they work and for many where they work.
• Annual leave: We offer 25 days holiday, plus 8 bank holidays and up to 12 flexi days.
• Flexible benefits: Our company-funded approach to flexible benefits allows employees to make choices appropriate for them.
• Network groups: To demonstrate our ongoing commitment to diversity & inclusion we have network groups for - Carers, Enable, Equalise, Pride.
• Training: Access to numerous and varied development opportunities including formal training, rotations, mentoring, and coaching.

Primary Location: GB - Southampton

Contract Type: Permanent

Hybrid Working: Onsite