Engineering ManagerLocation: NewtownardsCompany ProfileWe are representing a well-established and growing food manufacturer supplying retail, foodservice and B2B customers across the UK and Ireland. They are focused on improving reliability, investing in their sites and building a strong engineering function to support continued growth.Role PurposeThe Engineering Manager will lead the site engineering function, ensuring equipment reliability, compliance and effective maintenance planning. This is a leadership role focused on strategy, people management and performance, rather than a hands-on maintenance position.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and develop the engineering team, setting clear priorities, standards and ways of working.Develop and deliver the site engineering strategy aligned with operational and business objectives.Own preventative and planned maintenance programmes to maximise equipment uptime and reliability.Drive improvements in downtime reduction, asset care and overall equipment performance.Ensure full compliance with health and safety and statutory engineering requirements.Maintain accurate engineering documentation, procedures and records.Manage the engineering budget, including cost control and spend forecasting.Oversee external contractors, service providers and equipment suppliers.Ensure all contractor activity is carried out safely and to agreed standards.Support and lead capital projects, equipment upgrades and installations.Work closely with Operations, Production and Technical teams to support site performance.Provide engineering input into process changes and new product introductions.Support internal and external audits when required.Skills and ExperienceExperience in an Engineering Manager or engineering leadership role within manufacturing.Strong understanding of maintenance strategy, reliability and asset care.Proven people leadership experience managing engineers and technicians.Good knowledge of health and safety legislation and engineering compliance.Experience managing budgets, contractors and capital projects.Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally.Structured, calm and professional leadership style with a continuous improvement mindset.