Senior Contracts Manager / Project Manager / Defence Engineering ManagerPermanent | Competitive Salary + Benefits A leading UK marine engineering organisation, UK Docks, is seeking an experienced Senior Contracts Manager to lead project delivery across high-profile defence programmes. Based in South Shields and supporting work on Royal Navy vessels, this is a key leadership role within a well-established business known for delivering complex engineering solutions in the marine and defence sectors. Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the Project team, ensuring successful delivery and closeout of all technical workstreams Oversee planning and execution of vessel upgrade programmes, producing detailed work packages and schedules Act as the main point of contact for MOD stakeholders, ensuring alignment with defence engineering standards Coordinate with internal departments, contractors and OEMs to define scope, budgets and resource requirements Deliver projects end-to-end, ensuring performance against time, cost and quality objectives Manage change control, cost estimation and continuous improvement initiatives Maintain accurate documentation and provide clear project reporting to senior leadership Represent the organisation in client meetings, leading engagement with key stakeholders Support commercial activities including invoicing and final account negotiations Ensure all activities comply with safety, quality and statutory regulations Monitor team performance through KPIs and provide regular updates to senior management

Essential Requirements

Strong background in contract or project management within defence, marine or shipbuilding sectors HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical, Marine or Electrical Engineering (or related discipline) Proven experience managing cross-functional teams and multiple technical projects Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills Project management certification (e.g. PRINCE2, APM, PMP) Proficient in Microsoft Office tools including Word, Excel, Teams and SharePoint

What's on Offer

Competitive salary and benefits package 23 days annual leave (rising to 25 with service), plus bank holidays Holiday buy/sell scheme Flexible core working hours Free on-site parking Company-matched pension scheme

Apply Now If you are an experienced Contracts or Project Manager with a background in defence or marine engineering and are looking to take the next step in your career, we'd love to hear from you #J-18808-Ljbffr