Senior Contracts Manager / Project Manager / Defence Engineering Manager
Permanent | Competitive Salary + Benefits
A leading UK marine engineering organisation, UK Docks, is seeking an experienced Senior Contracts Manager to lead project delivery across high-profile defence programmes. Based in South Shields and supporting work on Royal Navy vessels, this is a key leadership role within a well-established business known for delivering complex engineering solutions in the marine and defence sectors.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage the Project team, ensuring successful delivery and closeout of all technical workstreams
Oversee planning and execution of vessel upgrade programmes, producing detailed work packages and schedules
Act as the main point of contact for MOD stakeholders, ensuring alignment with defence engineering standards
Coordinate with internal departments, contractors and OEMs to define scope, budgets and resource requirements
Deliver projects end-to-end, ensuring performance against time, cost and quality objectives
Manage change control, cost estimation and continuous improvement initiatives
Maintain accurate documentation and provide clear project reporting to senior leadership
Represent the organisation in client meetings, leading engagement with key stakeholders
Support commercial activities including invoicing and final account negotiations
Ensure all activities comply with safety, quality and statutory regulations
Monitor team performance through KPIs and provide regular updates to senior management
Essential Requirements
Strong background in contract or project management within defence, marine or shipbuilding sectors
HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical, Marine or Electrical Engineering (or related discipline)
Proven experience managing cross-functional teams and multiple technical projects
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Project management certification (e.g. PRINCE2, APM, PMP)
Proficient in Microsoft Office tools including Word, Excel, Teams and SharePoint
What’s on Offer
Competitive salary and benefits package
23 days annual leave (rising to 25 with service), plus bank holidays
Holiday buy/sell scheme
Flexible core working hours
Free on-site parking
Company-matched pension scheme
Apply Now
If you are an experienced Contracts or Project Manager with a background in defence or marine engineering and are looking to take the next step in your career, we’d love to hear from you