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
#J-18808-Ljbffr