Project Manager

Fortress Recruit is working with a well-established Defence manufacturing business to appoint a Project Manager, based out of their site in Poole.

This is a key delivery role responsible for leading complex, new-development projects within a highly regulated environment. You’ll take ownership of the full project lifecycle - from late development stages through qualification and into production - ensuring delivery to fixed deadlines. This is not a traditional, process-only PM role; it requires a hands-on, dynamic individual who thrives in a fast-paced, customer-driven setting.

Key responsibilities include:

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Leading the planning, execution and closure of assigned projects, from development through to production

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Taking full ownership of scope, change management and change control in response to evolving customer requirements

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Managing strict, non-negotiable delivery deadlines and driving rapid response to emerging issues

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Acting as the primary customer contact, managing expectations and maintaining strong working relationships

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Planning, monitoring and controlling project costs, including revenue and cost forecasting

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Preparing regular budget, schedule and milestone reports for internal and external stakeholders

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Coordinating cross-functional teams to ensure technical, documentation and contractual requirements are met

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Driving continuous improvement across project controls, reporting and delivery processes

To be considered for this role, you'll have:

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5+ years’ project management experience within a technical or engineering defence environment

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Experience delivering complex new product development or bespoke manufacturing projects through the full design lifecycle

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Strong capability in change management and configuration control

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Commercial awareness and confidence managing customer-facing delivery

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A driven, autonomous approach with strong analytical skills and an inquisitive mindset

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Comfortable making informed decisions in a fast-moving environment and taking full ownership of outcomes

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APM PMQ or PRINCE2 Practitioner

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Degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent experience

This is an excellent opportunity to join a technically complex organisation delivering critical, high-profile programmes. You’ll gain broad exposure across multiple business units, working closely with engineering, operations and commercial teams and will be trusted to take ownership and drive delivery. A competitive salary and flexible working is on offer.

This role is based on-site in Poole with UK travel as required. Eligibility for SC Clearance is essential (5 years' UK residency without visa or sponsorship requirement).

For a confidential conversation or to request a full job description, please send your full CV or call Becki directly