Job Title: Projects & Planning Manager
Location: On-site near Cheltenham (Remote working not available)
Salary: £50,000–£60,000 OTE (plus performance-related bonus)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Hours: Monday–Thursday: 08:00–17:00, Friday: 08:00–14:00
Are you an experienced Project Manager with a passion for advanced manufacturing and automation? We’re representing a leading UK manufacturer of bespoke automation and control systems, seeking a Projects & Planning Manager to oversee the delivery of complex, multi-million-pound engineering projects.
Based near Cheltenham, the company designs and builds custom automation machinery — including robotics, vision inspection, and factory control systems — for clients across the food, beverage, and packaging sectors.
First Off - What’s In It for You?
1. £50,000 – £60,000 OTE (basic + KPI-driven bonus)
2. Contributory pension scheme
3. Private health insurance for you and your family (after probation)
4. 21 days holiday plus bank holidays, increasing with service
5. Cycle to work scheme
6. Spot bonuses
7. Opportunity to work for a fast-growing advanced manufacturing business
Key responsibilities include:
8. Managing multiple complex automation projects simultaneously, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery
9. Setting and monitoring project milestones, budgets, and resources across fabrication and assembly
10. Maintaining close oversight of project progress, KPIs, and cost performance, providing regular updates to the Board
11. Driving effective communication and coordination between engineering, workshop, and management teams
12. Implementing quality management processes and ensuring readiness for FATs
13. Leading and developing direct reports including the workshop manager, fabrication team leader, and machine shop supervisor
14. Conducting performance reviews, managing workloads, and fostering a culture of accountability and improvement
15. Identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance efficiency and output across operations
The ideal candidate will have:
16. At least 5 years’ experience managing multiple projects within an engineering or manufacturing environment
17. Proficiency in project management tools (Microsoft Project or similar) and ERP systems (SAP preferred)
18. Strong budgetary and resource planning skills
19. Proven ability to lead and motivate teams across diverse disciplines
20. Excellent communication, organisation, and stakeholder management skills
21. A solutions-driven mindset with strong commercial awareness and attention to detail
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a fast-growing advanced manufacturing business at the forefront of automation and engineering innovation. If you thrive in a dynamic, hands-on environment and enjoy the challenge of delivering bespoke technical solutions, we’d love to hear from you.