Interior Trim PlannerAssignment Type: Temporary, ongoing via Hays Location: Chichester Working Environment: On-site, office-based Pay Type: Competitive hourly rateRole OverviewThe Interior Trim Planner role combines manufacturing engineering expertise with structured project management to support the delivery of low-volume, high-value bespoke interior products. You will work closely with engineering, design, quality, and production teams to evaluate new features, guide development, and ensure successful industrialisation and launch of bespoke interior components.You will manage multiple projects concurrently, each ranging from early feasibility through to stable production, ensuring technical quality, cost control, and process readiness throughout the product lifecycle.Key ResponsibilitiesNew Product Introduction (NPI) & Feasibility Conduct feasibility and cost evaluations for new bespoke interior features.; Assess manufacturability, visual requirements, and technical constraints in early development stages.Support themed or customer-specific product requests within a low-volume, high-luxury environment.End-to-End Project ManagementLead Interior Trim Centre activities through the NPI lifecycle: evaluation, engineering development, prototypes, industrialisation, and launch; Coordinate cross-functional teams and act as the key point of contact for bespoke feature delivery; Manage information flow, risk assessments, and progress reporting to stakeholders.Engineering, Development & Process IndustrialisationParticipate in engineering and design reviews, conducting risk-based assessments of production processes.Plan and deliver prototype builds, evaluation trials, and initial batch production.Establish stable, repeatable manufacturing processes capable of meeting required volumes.Develop, improve, and industrialise both new and existing processes within the Interior Trim Bespoke Studio.Technical Problem-Solving & Continuous ImprovementPerform structured problem-solving using DMAIC methodology.Identify risks and implement mitigation plans to ensure robust product and process quality.Support continuous improvement initiatives aligned with Lean Manufacturing principles.Tooling, Fixtures & EquipmentLead the specification, purchase, and commissioning of jigs, fixtures, tooling, and equipment required to support new product launches.Reporting & Stakeholder Communication DeliverRegular updates, presentations, and reports to stakeholders at all levels.Use internal systems and tools, including PowerPoint, for status communication and documentation.Skills, Experience & QualificationsEssentialExperience in a manufacturing engineering environment, ideally automotive, aerospace, or marine.Knowledge of NPI, APQP, and structured project management processes.Strong problem-solving capability with experience handling complex technical issues.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.Proficiency in 2D and 3D CAD.Understanding of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement techniques.High attention to detail with the ability to manage several projects simultaneously.DesirableDegree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related discipline.Hays Talent Solutions is a trading division of Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited and acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk