At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage complex engineering programmes from start to finish.
- Company: Leading UK engineering and manufacturing business with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits package, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team and work on exciting projects across various sectors.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while driving operational excellence.
- Qualifications: Experience in programme management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head of Programmes to join a leading UK engineering and manufacturing business specialising in innovative electronic and electro‑mechanical systems. Operating across sectors including rail, aviation, defence, infrastructure and industrial engineering, this senior leadership role is ideal for a commercially aware programme management professional with a strong technical and operational background.
Based in Saffron Walden, Essex, the successful candidate will lead and oversee multiple complex engineering programmes, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget and aligned to strategic business objectives. This role offers the opportunity to play a key part in driving operational excellence, programme performance and continuous improvement within a highly technical manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead and manage multiple engineering and technical programmes from initiation through to delivery
- Define programme scope, objectives, timelines and deliverables aligned with wider business goals
- Develop and oversee detailed programme plans, budgets, resource allocation and delivery schedules
- Coordinate cross‑functional teams, suppliers and third‑party contractors to ensure successful execution
- Drive programme governance, risk management and performance reporting across all projects
- Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, customers and executive leadership teams
- Ensure programmes are delivered on time, within budget and to required quality standards
- Identify opportunities for operational improvements, process optimisation and greater efficiency
- Mentor and support project management teams while fostering a high‑performance culture
- Ensure compliance with company policies, engineering standards and industry best practices
- Proven experience in a Head of Programmes, Senior Programme Manager or similar leadership role
- Strong background within engineering, manufacturing, infrastructure, rail, aviation, defence or industrial sectors
- Excellent leadership, stakeholder management and programme delivery capabilities
- Strong understanding of programme and project management methodologies including Agile and Waterfall
- Experience using project management tools such as Microsoft Project, Jira, Trello or Asana
- Strong commercial awareness with budgeting, forecasting and financial management experience
- Exceptional communication, organisational and problem‑solving skills
- Ability to manage multiple large‑scale programmes within a fast‑paced environment
- Hands‑on approach with the ability to resolve complex operational and technical challenges
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Management, Engineering or a related field
- Professional certification such as PRINCE2, PMP or Agile preferred
Head Of Programmes/Project Management in Colchester employer: Redline Group Ltd
Join a leading UK engineering and manufacturing business in Saffron Walden, Essex, where innovation meets excellence. As a Head of Programmes, you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration, continuous improvement, and employee development. With competitive benefits and opportunities for professional growth, this role offers a chance to make a significant impact in a highly technical environment while enjoying the unique charm of Essex.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of Programmes/Project Management in Colchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and recent achievements. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role and the company.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed complex programmes and led teams. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them impactful.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you ace your application and connect with potential employers. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on new opportunities tailored to your skills.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Of Programmes/Project Management in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your leadership roles and any relevant projects you've managed, especially in engineering or manufacturing sectors.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Programmes role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led complex programmes and improved operational efficiency in previous positions.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since this role requires a strong technical background, don’t forget to mention your experience with project management tools like Microsoft Project or Jira. We want to see how you’ve used these tools to drive programme success.
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 this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Redline Group Ltd
✨Know Your Programmes Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the programmes and projects the company is involved in. Familiarise yourself with their recent achievements and challenges in sectors like rail, aviation, and defence. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and ability to lead similar initiatives.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership approach and how you've successfully managed cross-functional teams in the past. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've driven programme governance and risk management, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
✨Highlight Your Technical Expertise
Given the technical nature of the role, be ready to talk about your engineering background and any relevant methodologies you’ve used, such as Agile or Waterfall. Mention any project management tools you're proficient in, like Microsoft Project or Jira, to show you’re equipped for the job.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street, so think of insightful questions to ask about the company's future projects and how they measure success. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company aligns with your career goals and values.
