Date Posted:
2026-03-02
Country:
United Kingdom
Location:
Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire
Position Role Type:
Hybrid
Title: Program Manager
Location: Leighton Buzzard, United Kingdom
Joining Collins Aerospace isn’t just about finding a job; it’s about embarking on a journey to redefine the future of aerospace technology.
Collins Aerospace, an RTX company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defence industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio, and expertise to solve customers’ toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.
We are looking for an experienced manufacturing Program Manager to join our team in Leighton Buzzard to act as line manager to Engineering Program Leads (EPLs) and set the teams objectives.
The Program Manager will lead the successful delivery of the galley programs and associated airline projects, ensuring programs are executed efficiently, on time, within scope, and aligned with strategic objectives. The role will act as a primary liaison between internal teams and external customers, overseeing multiple projects, managing resources, risks, and opportunities, and driving continuous improvement and team performance across the programs. .
What you will do:
1. Lead programs to ensure adherence to program plans, schedules and budgets. Coach, and inspire cross-functional teams across Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations, Commercial, Finance, Quality, Aftermarket, and Business Development to deliver complex aerospace programs.
2. Manage the P&L of the programs to ensure profitability though effective budget control, forecasting and supplier management.
3. Direct the development and execution of program plans, including milestones, schedules, and budgets, to ensure delivery against contractual and business objectives. Drive proactive management of scope, risks, and opportunities, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and contractual requirements.
4. Identifying and addressing conflicts that arise during the program and finding win-win solutions to benefit all parties including the solving of difficult problems and escalation of complex issues to the Snr. Sales and Program Manager.
5. Embed a culture of continuous improvement and lessons learned, leading teams to optimize efficiency, quality, and delivery performance. Champion change leadership, empowering teams to adapt to evolving demands while driving operational excellence and innovation.
Experience & Qualifications we prefer:
6. Minimum of 5 years’ experience in program & project management is essential.
7. The successful candidate will also have experience in managing programs from the manufacturing industry – this is also essential.
8. A STEM Degree is highly desirable as is PM certification such as Prince 2 / PMP etc.
9. Proven people leadership in a matrix organisation.
10. External & Internal customer exposure experience – minimum of two years.
11. Good knowledge of NPI Product Lifecycle and new product development - Essential.
12. The ability to coordinate and manage cross-functional teams of people and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, team members and partners.
13. Proven high proficiency on MS Excel and general proficiency in MS office and Project (or similar).
14. Management of metrics, dashboard creation and clear reporting skills.
15. A high aptitude for problem solving, particularly where negotiations in priorities are concerned.
16. Ability to work to tight deadlines under pressure in a busy environment.
17. Experience in a process driven environment, working to recognised standards or regulations.
What we offer
18. 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
19. Competitive Salary
20. Bonus Scheme
21. Fantastic pension scheme
22. Critical illness cover.
23. Income Protection
24. Private Medical Insurance, Employee Assistance Programme, the ability to buy holidays, a cycle to work scheme & other great employee discounts
At Collins Aerospace, our Interiors team is focused on innovation, safety and cost efficiency. But we don’t just get people from point A to point B. We’re committed to making air travel more comfortable, connected and secure. As a leader in aviation interior products and services, we’re helping airlines and original equipment manufacturers create a positive experience for their customers. With offices and manufacturing facilities in more than 12 states across the U.S. and more than 10 countries around the globe, we’re changing the game of aircraft interiors. Are you ready to join our team?