Title: Programme Manager
Salary: Up to £61,426.72
Working Hours:
Monday – Thursday 7:45am – 16:40
Friday – 7:45am – 12:40
Benefits:
Pension – matched up to 8%
Holidays- 25 days plus bank holidays
Early finish on Fridays
Health cash plan
Occupational Health
Location: Washington, Sunderland
The Company:
Theo James’ Leadership & Executive Search is proud to be supporting a long-established, globally recognised automotive manufacturer in the appointment of a Programme Manager at their Washington operation. As a trusted, long-standing partner to Theo James, we have supported the organisation over many years and have extensive case studies of professionals who have joined the business, developed their careers, and thrived within its collaborative and values-driven culture.
This award-winning organisation has recently been recognised for its operational excellence and sustained growth, reflecting its continued investment in innovation, people, and manufacturing capability. With a strong presence in the UK and a global customer base, the business plays a critical role in delivering advanced solutions for some of the world’s most recognised automotive brands.
The Role:
This is a strategically important position responsible for overseeing the successful introduction and delivery of complex manufacturing programmes. You will lead cross-functional teams to ensure programmes are executed effectively, meeting key delivery milestones, commercial objectives, and customer expectations.
The role requires a proactive and commercially aware leader who can coordinate multiple stakeholders, maintain programme momentum, and ensure challenges are addressed swiftly and effectively. You will be instrumental in ensuring programme structure, governance, and communication are maintained throughout the full delivery lifecycle.
Working closely with internal departments, external partners, and customers, you will play a central role in ensuring programme success while contributing to the wider operational and strategic objectives of the business.
Skills and Experience Required:
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Demonstrated experience managing programmes or complex projects within a manufacturing environment
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Strong leadership capability with experience coordinating multidisciplinary teams
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Proven ability to manage timelines, priorities, and programme deliverables effectively
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Commercial awareness with experience overseeing programme costs and performance
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Strong stakeholder engagement skills, including exposure to customer-facing environments
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Experience working within fast-paced, high-performance manufacturing environments
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Degree qualified and/or relevant project or programme management qualifications (desirable)
Why Should You Apply?
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Join an award-winning, globally respected manufacturing organisation experiencing continued success and growth
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Opportunity to take on a highly visible leadership role with genuine influence on business performance
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Work with a long-standing Theo James partner, where we have consistently seen individuals build long-term, successful careers
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Be part of a business known for its positive culture, strong leadership, and commitment to employee development
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Collaborative environment that values accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement
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Competitive salary and benefits package reflective of the importance of this role