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 high-performance culture with excellent career advancement opportunities.
- Why this job: Drive operational excellence and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in programme management and strong technical background 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
Skills & Experience Required
- 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
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Management, Engineering or a related field
- Professional certification such as PRINCE2, PMP or Agile preferred
Head of Programmes & Projects - Engineering Leadership in Saffron Walden 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 & Projects, you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and continuous improvement, offering competitive benefits and ample opportunities for professional growth. With a focus on operational excellence and a commitment to developing your leadership skills, this role is perfect for those seeking a meaningful career in a highly technical environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Programmes & Projects - Engineering Leadership in Saffron Walden
✨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 recent news. This will help us tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role. Plus, it’ll give you some great talking points!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. We can even help you with common questions related to programme management and leadership roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we often have exclusive opportunities listed there that you won’t find anywhere else. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Programmes & Projects - Engineering Leadership in Saffron Walden
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in programme management and engineering, and don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills. We want to see how you can drive operational excellence!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Programmes role. Share specific examples of your past successes in managing complex projects and leading teams. Let us know how you align with our values!
Showcase Relevant Skills:Be sure to highlight your familiarity with project management methodologies like Agile and Waterfall. Mention any tools you’ve used, such as Microsoft Project or Jira, to demonstrate your technical prowess. We love seeing candidates who are well-versed in the latest practices!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out on joining our innovative team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Redline Group Ltd
✨Know Your Programmes Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specific programmes and projects the company is currently managing. Familiarise yourself with their objectives, timelines, and any recent successes or challenges. This will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head of Programmes, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional teams in the past. Highlight your approach to mentoring and fostering a high-performance culture, as this will resonate well with their expectations for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Savvy
Given the technical nature of the role, brush up on relevant engineering concepts and methodologies like Agile and Waterfall. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles, especially in managing complex engineering programmes. This will help establish your credibility and expertise.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage risks. Think of specific examples where you've navigated challenges in programme delivery, budget management, or stakeholder engagement. Practising these scenarios will help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
