Project Manager - Defence Background is a MUST

Barrow-In Furness , United Kingdom - Relcation package offered.
Full-time 37.5 hours per week 2 Year FTC (most likely to be extended)

We are looking for an experienced Project Manager to lead the delivery of complex, long-duration projects within a UK Defence environment. This is a key role responsible for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in line with agreed contractual and technical baselines.

You will act as the project owner, overseeing delivery from initiation through to completion, while managing stakeholders, risks, and performance across multiple functions.

• Take full ownership of one or more projects, ensuring successful execution against scope, schedule, and budget

• Lead project activities in line with defined product, project, and contract baselines

• Ensure all contractual deliverables are met

• Develop and execute the Project Management Plan in collaboration with cross-functional teams

• Monitor project performance, including dependencies, risks, and critical path

• Provide regular reporting and performance updates to internal and external stakeholders

• Act as the main point of contact for stakeholders

• Build strong relationships and manage communication based on stakeholder needs and influence

• Identify, assess, and manage risks and opportunities

• Ensure effective change control processes are followed

• Resolve issues quickly to minimise impact on project delivery

• Forecast and manage cash flow and milestone payments

• Work closely with Finance to monitor and report financial performance

• Work across business functions to ensure alignment and delivery

• Influence, guide, and support project teams without direct line management responsibility

You are a proactive and resilient project professional who thrives in a complex and fast-paced environment.

Essential:

• Proven experience in project management

• Strong organisational and planning skills

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to change

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Word, PowerPoint, Teams, Project)

Desirable:

• Formal Project Management qualification (e.g. PRINCE2, APM, PMP)

• Experience within mechanical engineering or manufacturing environments

• Knowledge of SAP systems

• Degree in a relevant discipline

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capability

• Ability to interpret data and make informed decisions

• High level of emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills

• Collaborative mindset with the ability to influence and resolve conflict

• Resilient, adaptable, and delivery-focused

Due to the nature of the role, candidates must:

• Have the right to work in the UK

• Meet security and clearance requirements

• Be aware that export control restrictions may apply

Our client is a global leader in mechanical power transmission solutions, with nearly 300 years of engineering heritage. Operating across 24 locations worldwide and employing over 1,200 people, the company serves industries including defence, marine, energy, and industrial sectors.

• Opportunity to work on complex, high-impact defence projects

• Collaborative and supportive working environment

• Exposure to global operations and industry-leading expertise

• Strong heritage combined with innovation and growth

If you’re ready to take ownership of challenging projects and play a key role in delivering critical programmes, we’d love to hear from you.