A specialist UK engineering organisation operating within the aerospace and defence sector is seeking an experienced Principal Project Manager to lead the delivery of complex, high-value programmes.
This is a senior role with real influence — ideal for someone who thrives on ownership, leadership, and delivering technically challenging projects from concept through to completion.
You’ll take full accountability for strategically important programmes, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. Working across engineering, production, and commercial teams, you’ll act as a central leader driving performance, managing risk, and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships.
You’ll also play a key role in shaping project management best practice, mentoring colleagues, and contributing to wider business strategy.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead delivery of complex engineering and technology programmes
- Manage scope, schedule, cost, risk, and quality
- Build and maintain strong customer and stakeholder relationships
- Lead multidisciplinary teams across engineering and commercial functions
- Provide clear reporting to senior leadership
- Identify risks and implement effective mitigation strategies
- Support portfolio planning and strategic decision-making
- Mentor and develop other project managers
- Drive continuous improvement across project governance and delivery
About You
- Proven experience delivering complex engineering or technology projects
- Strong track record managing technically challenging, high-value programmes
- Confident leading cross-functional teams
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Strong planning, organisation, and risk management capability
- Familiarity with tools such as Earned Value Management (EVM) is advantageous
- Eligible for (or holding) UK Security Clearance (SC minimum)
- Able to work onsite in Surrey at least 2 days per week
What’s on Offer
- Flexible working with core hours
- Paid overtime or time off in lieu (up to 24 additional days annually)
- 24 days holiday + bank holidays + Christmas shutdown
- Competitive pension scheme (up to 14% combined contribution)
- Private medical care
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Additional benefits including cycle scheme and tech purchase support
- Relocation support available (where applicable)
Why Apply?
You’ll be joining a highly specialised organisation where your work has real impact. With a flat structure and broad project exposure, this is an opportunity to influence delivery, shape best practice, and accelerate your career within a growing and technically diverse environment.
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