Process Engineering Manager

Process Engineering Manager We are seeking a highly capable Process Engineering Manager to take ownership of engineering performance, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement within a heavy industrial manufacturing environment (machining experience highly desirable). This is a pivotal, hands-on role for a Process Engineering Manager who thrives in fast-paced, high-output settings and is driven to make a tangible impact on production, reliability, and cost performance. This is not a traditional 9–5 position—this role demands presence, leadership, and accountability on the shop floor. The Opportunity As a Process Engineering Manager, you will play a critical role in aligning engineering with operations, ensuring processes are robust, efficient, and scalable. You will lead from the front, embedding a culture of continuous improvement while maintaining the highest standards of safety and performance. Key Responsibilities * Drive optimisation of manufacturing processes to maximise efficiency, output, and quality * Act as a key engineering partner to operations, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum productivity * Lead Continuous Improvement / World Class Manufacturing initiatives and cost reduction programmes * Develop and manage maintenance strategies, including both planned preventative maintenance (PPM) and reactive response * Lead, mentor, and develop a multi-skilled engineering team, including apprentices and junior staff * Oversee CAPEX and OPEX budgets, ensuring effective investment and cost control * Champion and enforce robust health & safety standards across all engineering activities * Travel of up to 30% is required in this role Requirements * Proven experience as a Process Engineering Manager or in a similar senior engineering leadership role * Background in heavy industry or machining environments (non-food preferred) * Experience within large-scale or corporate manufacturing operations * Strong leadership capability with a proactive, results-driven mindset Technical Expertise * CMMS systems and maintenance management * Working knowledge of PLCs and automation systems * Strong understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, and high-pressure steam systems * Root Cause Analysis tools (5 Why, Ishikawa, FMEA) * Permit to Work (PTW) systems * ERP systems such as Oracle * Strong grasp of KPIs, performance metrics, and operational efficiency drivers What You’ll Bring * A hands-on, solutions-focused approach with the ability to operate at pace * Strong mentoring and team development capability * The ability to work autonomously and respond effectively to operational challenges * A relentless focus on delivery, efficiency, and continuous improvement