Project Manager, Operations Manager, Program ​/ Project Manager

Project Manager
Westhill, Aberdeen
Full-time, Permanent
Please note that this role requires security checks.

The Role:

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to be in charge of the delivery of complex projects across the full New Product Development lifecycle, operating in line with the JFS Project Delivery Process. This role is accountable for project performance, delivery outcomes and full P&L ownership, requiring strong governance, financial control, stakeholder engagement and proactive risk and opportunity management.
You work with global, multi‑disciplinary project teams to deliver projects on time, on budget and to the satisfaction of both customers and internal stakeholders. Working closely with the PMO, you will set high standards for project execution, reporting and assurance, while pragmatically driving adherence to PMO processes and procedures through your own example.
The role involves close collaboration across multiple teams rather than direct line management and requires the ability to operate confidently within defined financial parameters. Based in Aberdeen, the position offers a hybrid working approach with regular travel to production sites, both within the UK and internationally, reflecting the global reach of the business.

What you’ll be doing :

Freely manage and deliver projects across the full project lifecycle in compliance with JFS project governance and reporting frameworks.
Provide strong team leadership, be in charge of multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-value or complex projects.
Build and maintain strong stakeholder and client relationships.
Proactively manage to mitigate risks and realise opportunities to enhance project outcomes.
Manage project budgets, forecasts, and cashflows ensuring timely invoice and payment collection in line with contract terms, aligning revenue recognition with invoice and cashflow schedules.
Forecast project resource requirements and allocate resources to optimise project performance.
Proactively manage contractual obligations, reviewing contract terms and identifying operational risks.
Conduct risk and opportunity assessments aligned with project goals and implement contingency and benefits realisation plans.
Manage the change control process including evaluating scope variations.
Capture and apply lessons learned to drive continuous improvement.

What we’re looking for:

Strong, adaptable manager with a consistent track record of delivering on commitments.
Influential communicator, building long-term internal and external relationships
Committed to safety leadership.
Experience working on NPD projects from concept to market launch through structured gated processes.
Extensive experience in engineering and manufacturing principles, tools, and technologies, ensuring robust design and efficient production.
Strong focus on Design for Manufacture, technical feasibility, and process optimisation within NPD environments.
Proven ability to identify and mitigate technical and manufacturing risks across the product lifecycle.
Align cross-functional teams (R&D, Product Management, Marketing, Manufacturing, Quality, HSE, Finance) to ensure design intent meets production capability.
Develop and manage project plans covering timelines, budgets, and resources.
Maintain strong awareness of market and industry trends impacting product development and manufacturing.
Nice to have:
International product delivery experience, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
Awareness of maritime and defence standards and international quality & safety standards would be advantageous.
APM Project Fundamentals & Project Management Qualification (or similar)
Familiar with international Quality and Safety standards (ISO 9001, 45001 etc.)

Experience of commercially sensitive projects.
Should hold or be able to obtain SC level clearance.

Why join us?

Early finish on Fridays
Competitive salary and benefits package aligned with experience (Private Medical Insurance, Life Assurance, Cycle to work scheme, Company Pension, etc.)
Clear pathways for career development and organisational visibility
Inclusive and supportive culture that values individual contributions
Meaningful work with impact across safety, innovation, and global operations

About Us:

James Fisher is a global engineering services company operating across Energy, Defence, and Maritime Transport. With a strong heritage in maritime operations, we now deliver innovative solutions in challenging environments. Our One James Fisher strategy is focused on building a unified, sustainable business within the Blue Economy, driving progress through technology, expertise, and collaboration.
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About us | James Fisher and Sons plc
James Fisher Defence (JFD), part of the James Fisher Group, is a global leader in underwater capability, delivering cutting-edge diving, submarine rescue, and hyperbaric solutions to both commercial and defence…