Automation Business Lead

Automation Experts Ltd; Stirchley; Remote; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automation firm is searching for a Batch Process Automation Lead to shape its new UK operation. The role requires strong expertise in automation within FMCG, Food & Beverage, or Pharmaceutical sectors and includes international travel for training and projects. You will lead teams and engage with clients to develop successful relationships, while also contributing to business development efforts.

Benefits

Uncapped bonus

Opportunity for international travel

Qualifications

• 5–10 years’ experience in FMCG, Food & Beverage, or Pharmaceutical automation.
• Strong knowledge of any automation batch process system is essential.
• Experience in team leadership or a drive to build a team.

Responsibilities

• Design and program automation control systems using Siemens DCS, PLC, HMI & SCADA.
• Lead and mentor engineers and technicians on project execution.
• Engage with clients to understand technical needs.

Skills

Experience in FMCG, Food & Beverage, or Pharmaceutical automation

Expertise in batch process systems

Hands-on experience with PLCs / HMI / SCADA

Understanding of safety systems and industrial communication protocols

Strong communication skills

Business acumen or interest in developing commercial skills

Job description

Batch Process Automation Lead - UK Expansion

£55 - £75k + Uncapped Bonus (expected earning £150k+)

Home based - South West / West Midlands / North West England

International Travel Required (20-30%)

Office will be agreed on dependent on candidate location

Ref : 22345

The Role

• Design and program automation control system hardware and software which use Siemens DCS, PLC, HMI & SCADA
• Develop system documentation (FEED, FDS, test docs, safety documentation, O&M)
• Engage with clients to understand technical needs and develop successful working relationships
• Carry out installation and commissioning activities
• Lead and mentor engineers and technicians on project execution
• Manage client relationships and translate requirements into solutions
• Oversee the full project lifecycle from concept to commissioning
• Engage in business development discussions and contribute ideas for UK growth
• Travel internationally for training and project work (EU & China)

The Person

• 5–10 years’ experience in FMCG, Food & Beverage, or Pharmaceutical automation
• Expertise in batch process systems – strong knowledge of any automation batch process system is essential – training on specific Siemens equipment will be provided
• Hands‑on experience with PLCs / HMI / SCADA
• Understanding of safety systems and industrial communication protocols (Profibus, Profinet, Modbus)
• Exposure to IT / OT integration or process engineering within manufacturing environments
• Some team leadership or mentoring experience – or clear drive to build and manage a team
• Business acumen or an interest in developing commercial skills
• Strong communication skills – confident, engaging, and able to represent the company externally
• Existing network within automation, FMCG, or process industries (engineers, suppliers, or potential clients)
• Willingness to travel internationally (approx. 20–30%)
• Sponsorship is not available for this position; you must be eligible to live and work in the UK. EU passports very helpful for ease of travel.

This is more than an engineering position — it’s an opportunity to shape a new UK operation within a highly respected international business. You’ll be a key part of the company’s next growth chapter, developing both the technical capability and commercial footprint across the UK.

If you’re ready to combine technical leadership with business influence, this could be your defining career move.

The role will begin as a home based position, with plans for a physical office within and around either the South West, the West of the West Midlands or the North West of England. We are seeking an Engineer who is either already within the area, or would relocate locally in the near future. Location will be settled upon depending on where the Lead Engineer resides.

For a confidential discussion, call Sarah Clarke.