The Engineering Project Manager is responsible for leading the development and industrialisation of interior trim systems for UK OEM customers. Working within a Tier 1 automotive environment, the role drives cross functional project delivery from RFQ award through development (can be Make to Print or Fully Deign Responsible) to SOP and into serial production, ensuring products meet stringent customer craftsmanship requirements, quality, cost, and timing.The role acts as the primary interface between OEM customer, internal engineering and manufacturing teams, and the Tier 2 supply base.Key ResponsibilitiesProject & Programme ManagementLead cross‑functional project teams delivering interior trim systems and components (e.g. instrument panels, door panels, consoles, headliners, cabin trim).Accountable for project timing, cost, scope, and quality targets from quotation through SOP and into series production.Develop and maintain detailed project plans, milestones, and resource forecasts.Manage change control (engineering changes, cost impacts, timing implications).Engineering & Technical CoordinationAct as the central technical interface between design, engineering, manufacturing, suppliers, and OEM customers.Coordinate concept feasibility, design maturation, validation, and industrialisation activities.Ensure compliance with automotive standards, OEM specifications, and regulatory requirements.Ensure systems and components are Engineered to piece and tooling cost targets.Support DFM/DFA, DFMEA, PFMEA, DVP&R and APQP activities.Luxury Quality & CraftsmanshipEnsure aesthetic, tactile, and perceived quality targets are achieved (fit, finish, gap & flush, material harmony).Drive resolution of premium quality issues, including surface finish, material behaviour, and visual appearance.Support build events, design reviews, and aesthetic sign‑off gates.Financial & Commercial ResponsibilityManage project budgets, tooling investment, and cost targets.Support quotation activities and commercial reviews.Track project financial performance and implement recovery plans where required.Stakeholder & Customer ManagementServe as primary customer contact for assigned projects.Prepare and deliver regular project status updates to internal leadership and customers.Manage escalation paths for technical, quality, or timing risks.Risk & Issue ManagementIdentify project risks early and proactively implement mitigation plans.Lead problem‑solving activities using structured methodologies.Ensure timely closure of open actions and issues.Qualifications & ExperienceDegree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related/equivalent discipline5+ years’ experience in automotive engineering or project management, preferable in the luxury or premium automotive segmentExperience delivering interior trim or cabin systemsStrong understanding of automotive development processes (APQP, FMA, DFM/DFA etc)Experience working with OEMs and/or Tier 1 suppliersNice to have: knowledge of materials such as leather, textiles, veneers, plastics, and decorative finishesNice to have: formal project management qualification (PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent)Skills & AbilitiesStrong project management capability in an automotive product development environmentExcellent cross‑functional leadership and communication skillsAbility to manage complex stakeholders, including luxury OEM customersHigh attention to detail with a strong quality mindsetConfident decision‑making under time and cost pressureStructured, methodical, and delivery‑focused approachProven negotiation and presentation skillsPassion for premium/luxury automotive design and craftsmanshipStrong ownership mentality and accountabilityResilient and able to work under pressure while maintaining accuracyCollaborative leadership styleCommercially aware with a customer‑first mindsetAptitude for Problem Solving & InnovationThis job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of skills, duties & responsibilities associated with the position.
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