Program Manager – Tooling & Composite Manufacturing
Location: United Kingdom (On-site preferred) – Open to remote candidates in India or China
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Operations Director
About Us
DFS Composites is a leading provider of high-precision mould tools and fixtures for composite manufacturing processes. Serving industries such as aerospace, automotive, and advanced engineering, we deliver bespoke tooling solutions from design through to delivery — with an emphasis on technical excellence, innovation, and precision.
The Role
We’re seeking an experienced Senior Program Manager to oversee the successful delivery of tooling and fixture programs while leading and developing our multinational team of Project Managers. In this senior leadership role, you’ll provide strategic oversight across multiple concurrent programs, ensuring alignment with operational objectives, client expectations, and continuous improvement goals.
You’ll report directly to the Operations Director and play a critical role in shaping the performance and culture of our global project management function.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide leadership and direction to a team of Project Managers located across multiple countries (e.g. UK, India, China, Mexico).
* Mentor, develop, and performance-manage the project management team to ensure consistency, accountability, and professional growth.
* Oversee the successful delivery of multiple tooling programs from concept to delivery, ensuring they meet quality, timeline, and budget requirements.
* Act as a senior escalation point for internal and client-facing program issues.
* Ensure best practices in program governance, risk management, and stakeholder engagement are consistently applied across all projects.
* Drive standardisation and continuous improvement of project management processes and tools.
* Collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain functions to ensure seamless program execution.
* Deliver regular reporting, metrics, and insights to the Operations Director and wider leadership team.
Requirements
* 7+ years of project/program management experience in manufacturing, tooling, or complex engineering environments
* Proven leadership experience managing and developing remote or multinational teams
* Strong understanding of tooling, composites, or precision engineering processes
* Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead across cultures and disciplines
* Highly organised with expertise in project planning, cost control, and risk mitigation
* Comfortable working across multiple time zones and adapting to shifting client needs
Preferred Qualifications
* Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, or related technical field.
* PMP, PRINCE2, or other formal project management certification.
* Familiarity with CAD/CAM, CNC processes, and composite tooling techniques.
* Experience in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, motorsport, or industrial composites.
* Hands-on experience working with global suppliers and manufacturing teams.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary (based on experience and location)
* A key leadership role in a technically advanced and growing business
* Flexibility to work remotely or on-site (UK preferred; India or China considered)
* Opportunities to shape the future of program delivery and team development
* Supportive and collaborative work culture focused on innovation and performance
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £50,000.00-£60,000.00 per year
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
* Work Location: In person