Head of Engineering – Defence Programmes Location: UK Sector: Defence / Marine Engineering Employment Type: Full-time Travel: Occasional UK & international travel
The Opportunity We are working on behalf of a well-established engineering organisation operating in the defence sector to appoint a Head of Engineering for a major, long-term, safety-critical programme.
This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for engineering delivery across the full product lifecycle, from concept and design through manufacture, test, installation, commissioning and in-service support. The successful candidate will act as the senior technical authority for the programme, providing leadership, governance and strategic direction across multiple engineering disciplines.
The role offers the opportunity to work on complex, highly regulated systems where engineering excellence, risk management and quality are critical to success.
Key Responsibilities Lead all engineering activities across design, manufacturing, assembly, test, installation and commissioning
Act as the senior engineering authority and primary technical interface for customers and internal stakeholders
Provide strategic technical leadership across complex mechanical systems and integrated platforms
Manage engineering risk, ensuring robust governance and sign-off through gated design processes
Drive right-first-time delivery, continuous improvement and operational excellence
Develop and execute engineering strategies aligned to programme and business objectives
Oversee delivery of technical data packs, documentation and compliance artefacts
Lead, coach and develop high-performing engineering teams
Support senior leadership decision-making with clear, data-driven technical insight
Candidate Profile Degree-qualified in Engineering (Chartered status desirable)
Strong background in mechanical engineering, ideally involving complex rotating or drive systems
Experience delivering engineering solutions within regulated, safety-critical environments
Deep understanding of materials, gear systems, bearings, shafts, lubrication and associated standards
Proven experience managing engineering risk and formal design reviews
Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels
Commercially aware, with the ability to balance technical, schedule and cost considerations
Experience of continuous improvement, lean or structured problem-solving methodologies
Why Apply? Senior, influential engineering leadership role
Long-term, high-profile defence programme
Opportunity to shape engineering strategy and delivery
Exposure to complex, mission-critical systems
Stable programme environment with strong investment
Security Requirements Due to the nature of the work, this position is subject to security clearance and export control requirements. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK and be eligible to obtain the required clearance.
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