Project Manager, Operations Management, Product Engineer

This is an established automotive components manufacturer known for quality lighting solutions and a genuinely customer-first approach — on a mission to become the most customer-centric vehicle lighting supplier in the industry. Their culture is built on innovation, craftsmanship and hands-on ownership, with a brand-new HQ to match their ambitions.
This is a broad, high-ownership Project Manager role overseeing product development projects end-to-end — from initial concept right through to production. Reporting to the Product Development Manager, you'll own delivery against the product roadmap and bespoke customer programmes, meaning you'll need genuine technical understanding of the product development process, not just project management process. You'll be the person who keeps design, engineering and customer requirements aligned and moving — solving problems, making evidence-based decisions under pressure, and holding the team accountable to deliver.
What you'll be doing
Owning project delivery end-to-end — consistently hitting design milestones on time, within budget, and to quality standard
Managing internal and external resources so projects stay on track and within budget
Leading meetings, driving actions, and ensuring accountability across the team
Reporting project health clearly to stakeholders, including risks and mitigation plans
Overseeing development of lighting products that meet regulatory, performance and aesthetic requirements
Managing product customisations, change requests, and technical support requests within set KPIs
Defining, upholding and continuously improving product standards and documentation
Troubleshooting issues and making critical, evidence-based decisions under pressure
What we're looking for
Relevant technical experience is essential — this role requires genuine understanding of the product development process, not just project coordination
Proven track record delivering multiple concurrent projects from concept to production on or ahead of schedule (automotive/manufacturing background preferred)
Strong command of project management tools and reporting
Excellent task and time management, follow-up discipline, and stakeholder management
Confident communicator, able to clearly articulate goals, tasks and risks
A growth-oriented, accountable, can-do attitude
Benefits & working pattern
On-site, full-time
33 days holiday (including bank holidays), rising after 2 years' service
Brand-new headquarters and modern office environment
Daily free lunch and refreshments, including freshly ground coffee
Access to Lifeworks perks and discount scheme
If you are interested in discussing this Project Management position further, please contact Emily Wright