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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in automation and material handling, driving success through collaboration.
- Company: Join FORTNA, a leader in transforming distribution operations for top global brands.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a culture that values diversity and innovation.
- Why this job: Be part of a movement that redefines success and empowers individuals to make an impact.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in project leadership with strong financial and stakeholder management skills.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and international project delivery.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
FORTNA partners with the world's leading brands to transform omnichannel and parcel distribution operations. Known world-wide for enabling companies to keep pace with digital disruption and growth objectives, we design and deliver solutions, powered by intelligent software, to optimize fast, accurate and cost-effective order fulfillment and last mile delivery. Our people, innovative approach and proprietary algorithms and tools ensure optimal operations design and material and information flow. We deliver exceptional value every day to our customers with comprehensive services and products including network strategy, distribution center operational design and implementation, material handling automated equipment, robotics and a comprehensive suite of lifecycle services.
At FORTNA, we believe in fostering a workplace that isn’t just a job but a movement – a collective effort to redefine success and transform challenges into opportunities. "Join the Movement" encapsulates our commitment to a workplace culture that thrives on collaboration, celebrates diversity, and empowers every individual to contribute to something greater than themselves.
Position Summary
The Project Director will primarily focus on successfully leading a portfolio of projects through design and implementation. Recognized as a technical authority in the areas of Material Handling Systems (MHS) and Control Systems, the role requires a strong emphasis on managing multiple stakeholders and maintaining proactive communication. Extensive industry experience and sound judgment to plan and accomplish company goals are essential.
Primary Responsibilities
- Leadership & Team Development
- Lead large, multidisciplinary project teams delivering end-to-end automation solutions.
- Create and communicate a clear project vision aligned with corporate objectives.
- Develop, coach, and mentor Project Managers and Engineers to build future leadership capability.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Project & Program Execution
- Oversee project portfolios ranging from $60M–$150M+ in total program value.
- Ensure safety, quality, schedule, and budget adherence while proactively managing risk and change.
- Establish governance structures, reporting mechanisms, and performance metrics.
- Drive consistent application of Fortna's project management framework and quality standards.
- Client and Stakeholder Management
- Serve as senior point of contact for executive-level clients and project sponsors.
- Maintain transparent communication and manage stakeholder expectations throughout the project lifecycle.
- Lead steering committees and executive reviews to ensure alignment and issue resolution.
- Commercial & Financial Control
- Own financial performance across projects, including forecasting, cash flow, and margin management.
- Partner with Project Accountants to ensure accurate reporting and early identification of variances.
- Participate in bid reviews, contract negotiation, and risk assessments for new opportunities.
- Operational Excellence & Innovation
- Leverage deep technical and operational knowledge to guide system design decisions.
- Use lessons learned to drive continuous improvement.
- Promote health, safety, and compliance across all site and office activities.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering, or Business/Project Management.
- 15+ years of experience in project, program, or operations leadership roles, with at least 8 years in automation or material handling systems.
- PMP or equivalent certification.
- Proven track record of delivering multi-site or large-scale projects ($50M–$150M+).
- Demonstrated experience in stakeholder and client leadership at senior executive level.
- Strong financial, contractual, and risk management skills.
- Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
Desired Qualifications
- Master's degree in Engineering, Business, or Project Management.
- Experience in international project delivery.
- Familiarity with Lean, Agile, or continuous improvement frameworks.
Other Requirements
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally.
- Ability to manage remote and on-site teams effectively.
Project Director in London employer: Material Handling Systems, Inc.
Contact Detail:
Material Handling Systems, Inc. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Director in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Project Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching FORTNA and their projects. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for transforming operations and how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly communicate your leadership style and how you’ve successfully managed large-scale projects in the past. We want to hear about your wins and how you can bring that success to FORTNA.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Let’s keep the conversation going and remind them why you’re the perfect fit for the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission at FORTNA. Share why you’re excited about leading projects and transforming operations.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in project management and automation systems. We love seeing how your background fits with what we do, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements and skills that match the job description.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so use simple language and structure your thoughts well. This will help us understand your qualifications quickly and easily.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our movement!
How to prepare for a job interview at Material Handling Systems, Inc.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Material Handling Systems and Control Systems. FORTNA is looking for someone who can demonstrate technical authority, so be ready to discuss your past projects and how they relate to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Project Director, you'll need to lead large teams. Prepare examples of how you've developed and mentored team members in the past. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and accountability within your teams.
✨Communicate Clearly
Effective communication is key, especially when managing multiple stakeholders. Practice articulating your project vision and how you keep clients informed throughout the project lifecycle. Be ready to discuss how you handle stakeholder expectations.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since you'll be responsible for financial performance, come prepared to discuss your experience with budgeting, forecasting, and margin management. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed project finances in the past.
