Project Manager - Launch

Our tier 1 automotive supplier based in Coventry are seeking a Project Manager to join their launch team and lead delivery of complex automotive seating programmes from pre-series builds through to production launch and serial manufacture. The role ensures projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards, while meeting customer and business objectives.

Key Skills And Qualifications

• Lead end-to-end project management of automotive seating launch from pre-production through to SOP (Start of Production) and serial production support.

• Ensure delivery of all project milestones in line with customer timing, cost, quality, and performance requirements.

• Develop, maintain, and execute detailed project plans, including timing schedules, resource allocation, and critical path analysis.

• Act as the primary interface between plant team and the Program, Engineering and commercial teams, ensuring clear communication, alignment on deliverables, and proactive issue resolution.

• Coordinate cross-functional teams including Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, Logistics, and Finance to ensure successful programme execution.

• Manage programme budgets, track financial performance, and drive cost optimisation opportunities throughout the project lifecycle.

• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks and issues, escalating where necessary and ensuring timely resolution.

• Ensure compliance with customer-specific requirements, internal standards, and automotive quality systems (e.g., IATF 16949, APQP, PPAP).

• Lead APQP activities and ensure all required deliverables are completed accurately and on time.

• Monitor and report project status, KPIs, and performance metrics to internal stakeholders and senior management.

• Support change management activities, including engineering changes, cost impacts, and timing adjustments.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance programme execution efficiency and effectiveness.

• Ensure lessons learned are captured and applied to future programmes to improve organisational capability.

Required

• Proven project/programme management experience ideally within a Tier 1 supplier environment

• Strong knowledge of automotive development processes, including APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and IATF 16949 standards

• Experience managing full project lifecycle through SOP and into serial production support

• Solid technical understanding of manufacturing processes, tooling, and industrialisation

• Proficiency in project planning tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera, or equivalent) with strong analytical and reporting capability

• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to engage customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams effectively

• Leadership, communication, and negotiation skills with the ability to influence without direct authority

• Good understanding of cost control, budgeting, and financial tracking for engineering programmes

• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects in a fast-paced global environment while maintaining accuracy and delivery focus

• Strong problem-solving ability with a proactive, results-driven mindset and commitment to continuous improvement and lean principles

Required Qualifications:

Project Management Qualification

Additional information:

• *THIS POSITION IS CONFIRMED INSIDE IR35**

Must be eligible to work in the UK

If you are interested in this role and have the skills and experience required Apply Now