ProjectProgramme Manager R&D

Thermoteknix Systems Ltd founded in 1982 and based in Cambridge is a world leader in thermal imaging night vision and augmented reality systems. Our award-winning technologies are trusted by defence security and industrial customers in over 70 countries. With in-house R&D cutting-edge innovation and a global reputation for quality we design and manufacture solutions that perform in the toughest environments.

Role Overview
This is a pivotal role within the Engineering and R&D organisation responsible for both hands-on project management and strategic programme oversight.

The Project/Programme Manager will coordinate delivery across multiple technical teams ensuring projects are delivered on time on budget and in line with Thermoteknix strategic priorities. The role combines day-to-day project management activities such as scheduling progress tracking and risk management. The position includes higher-level responsibilities including portfolio planning cross-project alignment and reporting to senior stakeholders.

You will act as the central point of coordination for R&D project delivery driving clarity communication and accountability across the organisation.


Key Responsibilities
Project Management
Administering multiple R&D and engineering projects from initiation through to completion.
Supporting project scopes deliverables timelines and resource requirements in collaboration with technical leads.
Develop and maintain detailed project plans risk registers and progress reports.
Coordinate and lead project meetings ensuring actions and dependencies are tracked and resolved.
Support engineers and design teams in achieving project objectives ensuring alignment with technical and commercial requirements.
Tracking budgets schedules and stakeholder expectations at the project level.

Programme Management
Deliver the status of broader portfolio of R&D projects to key stakeholders to ensure strategic alignment and effective resource utilisation.
Establish and maintain programme-level reporting governance and review structures.
Identify inter-project dependencies risks and opportunities for efficiency or collaboration.
Support the prioritisation of projects in line with business objectives and available capacity.
Consolidate programme metrics and communicate progress to senior management.
Drive continuous improvement in project and programme management processes tools and communication standards across the department.

Cross-functional Collaboration
Liaise with Product Management Operations and Commercial teams to ensure project outcomes meet business needs.
Facilitate effective communication across technical managerial and stakeholder groups.
Champion structured project delivery and promote a culture of accountability and transparency within R&D.


Required Skills & Experience
Proven experience in project and/or programme management roles within technical engineering or R&D environments (e.g. electronics optics imaging or related fields).
Strong understanding of engineering development lifecycles from concept through to production.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent projects while maintaining oversight of the broader programme landscape.
Excellent planning organisational and communication skills.
Skilled in risk management dependency tracking and stakeholder reporting.
Proficiency in project management tools such as MS Project Jira or equivalent.
Degree or HNC/HND ideally in an Engineering Computer Science Electronics or similar discipline.
Relevant qualifications (e.g. PRINCE2 MSP PMP Agile)


Personal Attributes
Proactive methodical and adaptable equally comfortable managing detailed technical projects and coordinating high-level programme delivery.
Strategic thinker who can see the bigger picture while maintaining attention to detail.
Strong interpersonal and leadership skills able to influence and collaborate across disciplines.
Comfortable introducing and refining structured processes within a growing organisation.
Self-starter with a commitment to quality accountability and continuous improvement.

What We Offer
Involvement in cutting-edge imaging technologies.
Collaborative working environment with strong technical expertise.
Training and career development opportunities.
Competitive salary and benefits package.