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: Drive operational excellence and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- 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 & Delivery Excellence in Essex employer: Redline Group Ltd
Join a leading UK engineering and manufacturing business in Saffron Walden, Essex, where innovation meets excellence. As the Head of Programmes, you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and continuous improvement, offering competitive benefits and opportunities for professional growth. With a focus on operational excellence and a commitment to employee development, this role provides a unique chance to make a significant impact in a highly technical environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Programmes & Delivery Excellence in Essex
✨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 to potential employers. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their projects, values, and challenges they face in the engineering space. This will help us tailor your responses and show them you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams and managed complex programmes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s get you that Head of Programmes role!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Programmes & Delivery Excellence in Essex
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 engineering or programme management experience to show us you're the right fit for the Head of Programmes position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our needs. Don't forget to mention specific projects you've led that demonstrate your ability to deliver on time and within budget.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since we're looking for someone with a strong technical background, make sure to highlight your experience with project management methodologies like Agile and Waterfall. Mention any tools you’ve used, such as Microsoft Project or Jira, to give us a clear picture of your capabilities.
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 gives you a chance to explore more about our company culture and values!
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 knowledge and show how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Programmes, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects. Think about times when you've driven operational excellence or improved programme performance, and be ready to discuss these in detail.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Given the technical nature of the role, expect questions that assess your understanding of engineering and project management methodologies like Agile and Waterfall. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to explain how you've applied them in past roles, especially in managing budgets and resources.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Strong stakeholder management is key for this position. During the interview, think about how you can connect with the interviewers by discussing your approach to building relationships with senior stakeholders and customers. Share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated stakeholder expectations in previous roles.
