Project and Planning Manager

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.