Projects & Planning Manager

Projects and Planning Manager

Location: Cheltenham
Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 OTE (basic + KPI bonus)
Hours: Full-time, Permanent | Monday-Thursday 8:00-17:00 | Friday 8:00-14:00
Reports to: Board of Directors

The Company

Our client is a growing and innovative automation and engineering business, specialising in the design, build, and installation of bespoke control systems, factory automation solutions, robotics, and packaging machinery. Operating from a 30,000 sq. ft facility in North Gloucestershire, the company delivers cutting-edge projects across multiple industries including food, beverage, and manufacturing.

The Role

This is an exciting and fast-paced leadership role for a proactive and highly organised Projects and Planning Manager. Reporting directly to the Board, you will oversee multiple large-scale automation projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. You'll manage resources, coordinate engineering teams, and act as the central point of control for all active projects.

This is a hands-on role that requires exceptional communication, multitasking, and problem-solving skills - ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic, solutions-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage multiple complex engineering projects from planning through to completion

• Set and monitor daily/weekly milestones to ensure on-time delivery

• Oversee resource planning and scheduling to avoid production bottlenecks

• Track project progress and performance against KPIs

• Liaise with engineering teams, suppliers, and customers to coordinate project activity

• Manage budgets and flag potential overruns proactively

• Oversee workshop performance, ensuring a clean, organised, and efficient environment

• Lead and support direct reports (Workshop Manager, Fabrication Team Leader, Machine Shop Supervisor)

• Conduct performance reviews and support staff development

• Ensure quality management procedures are implemented and followed

• Chair daily stand-ups and weekly production meetings to maintain communication flow

• Report regularly to the Board on project progress, risks, and performance metrics

About You

Essential:

• Minimum 5 years' experience in project management, ideally within an engineering or manufacturing environment

• Proven ability to manage multiple, complex projects simultaneously

• Skilled in project management software (e.g., Microsoft Project) and ERP systems (SAP desirable)

• Strong financial awareness with experience managing budgets and project KPIs

• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and organise teams

• Highly organised, adaptable, and comfortable managing change

• Confident presenting to senior stakeholders and clients

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)

• Eligible to live and work in the UK, with access to own transport (rural location)

Desirable:

• Experience in automation, robotics, or machinery manufacturing

• Exposure to fabrication, mechanical, or electrical build environments

Benefits

• £50,000 - £60,000 OTE (Basic + KPI-based bonus)

• Spot bonuses for exceptional performance

• Contributory pension scheme (after probation)

• 21 days annual leave + bank holidays (increasing with service)

• Private health insurance for employee and family (after probation)

• Cycle to Work scheme

• Early finish Fridays (2pm)

• Collaborative, high-performing work environment

Why Apply?

This is an outstanding opportunity to join a rapidly expanding engineering business at a pivotal time of growth. You'll have full visibility across multiple automation projects and play a key role in driving success, efficiency, and quality.

To Apply

If you're an experienced Project Manager who thrives in a dynamic, hands-on environment and enjoys bringing complex engineering solutions to life, apply today with your CV to be considered for this exciting opportunity.