Hardware Engineering Manager

JR United Kingdom; Stoke-on-Trent; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in defense manufacturing seeks an Electronics Engineering Manager to lead operations at their facility in Stoke-on-Trent. This senior leadership role offers significant responsibilities including managing client contracts, driving operational excellence, and has the potential for career progression to Managing Director. Candidates need a strong background in electronics engineering, leadership experience, and a strategic mindset to navigate complex challenges.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in electronics or defence manufacturing.
• Knowledge of ISO9001:2015 standards and regulatory frameworks.
• Technical expertise in product development.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of facility operations — production, maintenance, quality assurance.
• Manage and deliver complex defence contracts with full regulatory compliance.
• Drive strategic planning aligned with company goals.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Thinking

Problem Solving

Interpersonal Skills

Quality Control

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering or Business

Job description

Join Our Leadership Team – Electronics Engineering Manager (Defence Manufacturing | Bespoke Electronics | High Power Custom Systems)

Full-Time Contract or Permanent | Senior Leadership

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for driving operational excellence in high-stakes environments? We’re seeking an Electronics Engineering Manager to share technical responsibilities with the Managing Director, serve as the main contact for a high-value client, and lead our cutting-edge facility at the forefront of the defence and electronics manufacturing sector. This role offers a unique opportunity for career progression into a Managing Director or Technical Director position in the future.

The client is looking for the best candidate and can offer either a high salary or a contract day rate.

About the Role

As Electronics Engineering Manager, you will take full ownership of facility operations — including production, maintenance, quality control, and compliance. Working collaboratively with engineering, finance, and senior leadership teams, you will champion strategic initiatives, improve operational processes, and ensure our design facility meets the highest industry standards.

Your leadership will be crucial in delivering high-quality, mission-critical products, supporting sustainable growth, and enhancing our brand within the defence and bespoke electronics manufacturing sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of facility operations — production, maintenance, and quality assurance
• Drive strategic planning aligned with company goals and vision
• Manage and deliver complex defence contracts with full regulatory compliance
• Foster a culture of innovation, safety, and continuous improvement
• Collaborate with engineering teams from design to production
• Oversee budgeting, financial performance, and resource allocation
• Build relationships with stakeholders, suppliers, and regulatory bodies
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards
• Set and monitor KPIs for performance, cost-efficiency, and quality

What You’ll Bring

• 10+ years of experience in electronics or defence manufacturing, with senior leadership experience
• Knowledge of defence customer contracts, regulatory frameworks, and ISO9001:2015 standards
• Technical expertise in electronics engineering, quality control, and product development
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to inspire and lead teams
• Strategic mindset with problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field (preferred)

Human Qualities That Matter

• Authentic, empathetic leadership based on transparency and integrity
• Visionary thinking with resilience for complex challenges
• Collaborative approach supporting diversity and inclusion
• Passion for mentoring and developing teams
• Effective communication with emotional intelligence
• Production Efficiency: 95%+ target
• Cost Savings: 10% annual reduction in operational costs
• Safety: Zero incidents or non-compliance

The client is open to either an Ltd. contractor arrangement with potential for transition to permanent employment or a direct permanent role at a high salary. The MD plans to retire in the next few years, providing an opportunity for the successful candidate to become MD of the business within 3-5 years.