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Copello is supporting a leading UK based organisation at the forefront of defence and aerospace innovation. Their mission is to develop advanced technology solutions that strengthen national security and deliver real world impact. As an employer, they’re committed to driving innovation, nurturing talent, and fostering a culture of technical excellence and collaboration.
About the Role
We’re seeking an experienced and hands-on Programme Engineering Manager to lead critical product development, qualification, and production programmes. You’ll work within the Assured Position, Navigation, and Timing business area, which has a strong track record in GPS innovation for Land, Sea, and Air systems.
This is a key leadership role, responsible for delivering engineering outputs on time, within quality and cost parameters. You’ll plan, drive, track, and report on multi-disciplinary engineering activities while fostering collaboration, solving complex technical challenges, and maintaining programme momentum.
As Programme Engineering Manager, you’ll act as the technical project lead, representing the engineering team within the wider programme, and ensuring effective alignment between technical delivery and programme objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan engineering work packages, shaping and managing development logic, risk, and resourcing through to execution
- Develop and apply visual management tools to track progress and maintain delivery rhythm
- Report progress regularly to Programme and Business Leadership
- Support engineers in daily execution and problem-solving, facilitating collaboration across programme functions
- Work closely with the Programme Design Authority and Chief Engineer to maintain technical integrity
- Manage risks and changes to all engineering deliverables, ensuring effective mitigation and reporting
- Lead hands-on technical problem solving across development and manufacturing domains
- Motivate and coach engineers for success, technical growth, and strong execution discipline
- Mentor emerging technical leaders and Integrated Project Team (IPT) leads
Skills and Experience
- Proven experience leading mission-critical electronic product design, qualification, and certification programmes
- Strong background in transitioning products from development through to manufacture
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence across senior levels
- Demonstrated leadership in matrix-style organisations, delivering results through others
- Structured problem-solver with a hands-on approach to technical and operational challenges
- Highly dependable, autonomous, and results-driven professional
