Design and Development Manager (Food Automation & Dosing Systems)

We are seeking an experienced Design Engineering Manager to lead our engineering team in creating world-class automated food depositors, volumetric dosing systems and filling machinery. Bringing over 60 years of engineering expertise to global markets, you will oversee the development of both standalone units and complete, custom production automation systems. Your focus will be driving innovation that helps our international clients improve production efficiency, maximise portion accuracy, eliminate waste and seamlessly automate processes across sectors like bakery, ready meals, sauces, confectioner and pet food.

Key Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Mentorship: Manage, mentor and develop the in-house design and CAD engineering team, setting clear KPIs and conducting performance reviews.
• Design for Manufacture (DFM): Review and optimise new and existing product designs to reduce material waste, simplify assembly and maximise throughput on the factory floor.
• Process & Lifecycle Management: Oversee all engineering phase-gates, including Requests for Quotations (RFQs), Design Failure Mode Effect Analysis (DFMEA), design releases and product validation.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with procurement, production, quality and supply chain teams to ensure smooth transitions from prototype to mass production.
• Technical Compliance: Ensure all design outputs comply with industry standards, regulatory requirements and internal HSEQ guidelines.
• Drawing & Data Control: Implement and manage robust drawing checking, approval procedures and document control systems.

Requirements

• Experience: 5+ years of experience in a Design Management or Senior Engineering leadership role within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent practical experience) in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design or a related discipline.
• Software Proficiency: Advanced working knowledge of 3D CAD packages (e.g., SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, or AutoCAD).
• Manufacturing Knowledge: Deep, practical understanding of manufacturing processes (e.g., CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication and assembly operations).
• Skills: Exceptional problem-solving abilities, commercial awareness and excellent stakeholder management skills.