Job Description
Are you an experienced Senior Project Manager who thrives in complex engineering or manufacturing environments? Have you led SAP or ERP implementations, working closely with Systems Integrators and third‑party suppliers to deliver business critical change?
Smiths Detection is a global leader in threat detection technologies, operating in highly engineered, regulated and safety‑critical environments. Our IT PMO plays a key role in delivering transformative digital and enterprise programmes that underpin how we design, manufacture and support world‑leading technology.
As a Senior Project Manager, you’ll lead medium to large IT projects that matter; from enterprise systems and ERP platforms to infrastructure and digital enablement, partnering with the business, IT leaders and external delivery partners to ensure successful outcomes.
The Role
Reporting to a Programme Manager or the Head of Programme Delivery, you’ll take full ownership of end‑to‑end project delivery, operating with a high degree of autonomy while working within a mature PMO framework.
The role will be based from Hemel Hempstead, however, we do operate a flexible hybrid approach.
Responsibilities include:
* Lead complex IT projects from initiation through to closure, managing scope, schedule, budget, quality and risk
* Deliver projects within engineering or manufacturing contexts, where operational impact, governance and precision matter
* Drive projects that would include SAP / ERP or enterprise system implementations, including vendor led and SI delivered programmes
* Manage and challenge third‑party suppliers and Systems Integrators, ensuring contractual deliverables, milestones and quality are met
* Build credible relationships with senior business and IT stakeholders, facilitating project boards and steering committees
* Develop robust project plans, RAID logs, financial forecasts and dependency maps
* Apply and continuously improve PMO standards, governance and delivery practices
* Coach or support other Project Managers within your programme or workstream
What We’re Looking For
This role is ideal for someone who has built their career delivering technology change within engineering led or manufacturing organisations.
You’ll bring:
* Hands‑on experience with SAP, ERP or large‑scale enterprise platforms
* Strong background working with Systems Integrators, vendors and third‑party delivery partners
* Confidence managing budgets, forecasts and financial governance
* A structured but pragmatic approach, comfortable across Waterfall, Agile or hybrid delivery models
* Excellent stakeholder management skills — able to influence, challenge and align at senior levels
* A recognised PM qualification (PRINCE2 Practitioner, APM PMQ, PMP or equivalent)
* Experience in regulated, complex or global environments is a strong advantage.
Qualifications
Technical Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
* Degree‑level education or equivalent professional experience. A project management qualification (e.g. PRINCE2 Practitioner, APM PMQ, PMP, or equivalent) is essential
* Complete understanding and wide application of project management principles, tools, and methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, hybrid). Good knowledge of programme governance frameworks and IT delivery environments. Awareness of financial management and resource planning within a project context.
* Proven experience delivering medium‑to‑large IT or technology projects end‑to‑end. Strong planning, risk management, and financial tracking skills. Confident communicator and influencer at project level.
* Able to work with limited day‑to‑day supervision and independently determine approach to new assignments. Proficiency in project tooling (e.g. Smartsheet, MS Project, or equivalent).
* You must be eligible to obtain BPSS clearance as a minimum, we are unable to sponsor for this role
Additional Information
We offer…
Join us and we’ll help build your career, with excellent training and opportunities for career growth across the business, both locally and globally. You’ll experience an inclusive environment, with strong leadership and a focus on safety and wellbeing. You’ll also have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of benefits to suit your lifestyle, offering you and your family support from a health and wellbeing, financial and lifestyle perspective.
Join us and work for a world‑leader, with the benefits and training to reward your dedication and skills. Be part of a team where we are making the world a safer place.
All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics.
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