Job Advert
Job Title: Design Manager
Department: Product Design
Reporting to: Engineering Manager
Job Type: Full time, Permanent
No Direct Reports: 10
HQW Aerospace is a world-renowned manufacturer of super precision bearings, pushing the boundaries of innovation and precision engineering for over 75 years. We're committed to nurturing talent. Situated in the vibrant city of Plymouth, surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of Cornwall, we offer not only a stimulating work environment but also a lifestyle that blends work with leisure seamlessly. With stunning beaches, vibrant culinary scenes, and a plethora of social and sporting activities, Plymouth and its surroundings provide an exceptional backdrop for both personal and professional growth.
Why Join Us:
* Competitive Salary
* 25 days of paid holiday, plus bank holidays.
* Professional Development Investment from Day 1.
* Subsidised Canteen.
* Engagement and Rewards platform, with access to discounts at over 100 retailers.
* Free Parking, with electric charging points available.
Please Note:
* HQW Aerospace currently does not hold a sponsorship license. Therefore, all candidates must have the right to work in the UK.
* Due to the nature of our business, security clearance may be required.
Job Purpose:
To ensure the performance of product design function supports the strategic direction of the business through 'fit for purpose' planning, skills and capacity requirements. Working within the existing Product Lifecycle Management approaches, this role will lead the evolution of the product design process to be more responsive, agile and robust. The focus will be on modernising and automating design, documentation, tooling, and instruction processes to enable timely, cost-effective, and profitable product realisation while upholding high-quality standards. This position will also support the strategic management of workflows, projects, and priorities within the function, driving continuous improvement and efficiency.
Knowledge, Skills, and Experiences:
Knowledge:
* Process optimisation and automation methodologies
* Project management and risk management
* Business processes and methods
* Quality assurance principles
* Understanding of design for manufacturing and assembly
* Familiarity with digital transformation in engineering
Experience:
* Leading process improvement or automation initiatives within an engineering or product development environment.
* Managing projects from concept to realisation.
* Implementing and maintaining design standards and procedures.
* Applying risk management techniques.
* Experience with workflow management and optimisation tools.
Skills:
* Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, and presentation).
* Strong leadership and team collaboration abilities.
* Ability to drive continuous improvement and embrace new technologies.
* Proficiency in analytical tools, statistical methods, and problem-solving techniques (e.g., 6 Sigma, 8D).
* Strategic thinking and ability to adapt quickly to new challenges.
* Ability to work autonomously and empower team members.
Key Role Requirements:
* Planning to achieve OTD of design release to customer commitments
* Lead the planning and prioritisation of the product design team's activities, focusing on efficiency and innovation.
* Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the product design process, including the identification and implementation of automation opportunities.
* Project manage the development of new designs, ensuring processes are streamlined and quality is maintained.
* Develop, implement, and maintain guiding design rules for products and their realisation, with an emphasis on automation and standardisation.
* Oversee the generation of comprehensive product data packs, defining finished products and optimising steps throughout the product lifecycle through improved processes.
* Lead the validation and verification of designs, proactively managing risks associated with new processes and technologies.
* Modernise and support functions such as knowledge base development, calculations, documentation, and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) maintenance through automation and improved systems.
* Provide ongoing expert support to the wider business, disseminating knowledge, and leading problem-solving efforts with a focus on process enhancement.
* Develop and maintain close cooperation with all aspects of the business locally and at other sites to foster a culture of continuous improvement and digital transformation.
Join Our Team:
Join us today and become a part of our mission to redefine the future of high-precision aerospace engineering. Apply now to embark on an extraordinary career journey with HQW Aerospace.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Statement
At HQW Aerospace UK, we are committed to fostering a workplace that values and respects the diversity of all individuals. We believe that embracing equality, diversity, and inclusion is not only the right thing to do but also essential for driving innovation, creativity, and success in our future endeavours.