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?
* £50,000 – £60,000 OTE (basic + KPI-driven bonus)
* Contributory pension scheme
* Private health insurance for you and your family (after probation)
* 21 days holiday plus bank holidays, increasing with service
* Cycle to work scheme
* Spot bonuses
* Opportunity to work for a fast-growing advanced manufacturing business
Key responsibilities include:
* Managing multiple complex automation projects simultaneously, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery
* Setting and monitoring project milestones, budgets, and resources across fabrication and assembly
* Maintaining close oversight of project progress, KPIs, and cost performance, providing regular updates to the Board
* Driving effective communication and coordination between engineering, workshop, and management teams
* Implementing quality management processes and ensuring readiness for FATs
* Leading and developing direct reports including the workshop manager, fabrication team leader, and machine shop supervisor
* Conducting performance reviews, managing workloads, and fostering a culture of accountability and improvement
* Identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance efficiency and output across operations
The ideal candidate will have:
* At least 5 years’ experience managing multiple projects within an engineering or manufacturing environment
* Proficiency in project management tools (Microsoft Project or similar) and ERP systems (SAP preferred)
* Strong budgetary and resource planning skills
* Proven ability to lead and motivate teams across diverse disciplines
* Excellent communication, organisation, and stakeholder management skills
* 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.