Project Manager Strategic Initiatives - Supply Chain Focus

Driscoll's; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural firm in Maidstone is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead strategic Supply Chain initiatives across the EMEA organization. In this role, you will work closely with senior leadership, driving project execution and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate will have at least 5–7 years of project management experience with a focus on Supply Chain projects, along with a PMI-PMP certification. This role offers the opportunity for international travel up to 25%.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5–7 years of project management experience, with a strong focus on Supply Chain projects.
• PMI-PMP or equivalent industry-recognized project management certification is required.
• Proven experience managing large, cross-functional, complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Establish and execute projects within clear governance and planning structures.
• Translate strategic objectives into actionable project plans and actively drive progress.
• Lead structured meetings with cross-functional project teams and provide regular updates.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Communication skills

Risk management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Information Technology or related field

Tools

PMO methodologies

Project management tools

Job description

About the Opportunity

In this role, you will be responsible for leading and delivering strategic Supply Chain initiatives across the EMEA organization. You will operate at the heart of the business, working closely with senior leadership and cross‑functional teams. You will report to the Program Manager, EMEA Strategic Initiatives, and act as a critical link between strategy and execution. The role is based in the Maidstone office (UK) and requires international travel of up to approximately 25%, depending on project phase and stakeholder needs.

Responsibilities

Project Planning & Execution

As Project Manager, you are fully accountable for establishing and executing projects within clear governance and planning structures. You translate strategic objectives into actionable project plans and actively drive progress, quality, and results.

• Engage with senior leadership and key stakeholders to align project objectives with strategic business goals
• Develop and manage detailed project plans including resources, milestones, dependencies, and risks
• Lead day‑to‑day project execution and facilitate project team meetings
• Monitor progress, adjust plans as needed, and ensure timely delivery of milestones

Stakeholder Management

Successful project delivery depends on strong stakeholder engagement. In this role, you ensure clear communication, alignment, and commitment across all internal and external stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.

• Lead structured meeting cadences with cross‑functional project teams
• Provide regular updates on progress, risks, and key decisions
• Advise program leadership and support effective decision‑making

Risk & Issue Management

You proactively identify risks and take decisive action to minimize their impact on project objectives. You continuously safeguard project stability and momentum.

• Identify project risks and develop mitigation strategies
• Resolve issues in a timely manner and engage the escalation process when necessary

Reporting, Communication & Change Management

You ensure transparent and consistent communication with senior leadership and the PMO. In addition, you support change initiatives by embedding change management activities into your project approach.

• Report project status to senior leadership through Steering Committee meetings
• Contribute to PMO portfolio‑level reporting to the Program Manager
• Collaborate with change management teams and support change activities

Processes & Best Practices

As part of a mature PMO environment, you actively contribute to the continuous improvement of project management practices across the organization.

• Apply and ensure adherence to PMO methodologies and standards
• Coach team members and stakeholders on project management tools and processes
• Identify and implement opportunities to improve project management practices

Candidate Profile

Required Qualifications & Experience

We are looking for an experienced Project Manager who thrives in a complex, international environment and is able to bring structure and direction to strategic Supply Chain initiatives.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Information Technology, or a related field
• Minimum of 5–7 years of project management experience, with a strong focus on Supply Chain projects
• PMI‑PMP or equivalent industry‑recognized project management certification (required)
• Full professional fluency in English
• Proven experience managing large, cross‑functional, complex projects
• Strong communication and presentation skills, including executive‑level communication

Strongly Preferred

• Knowledge of Supply Chain Management principles and best practices
• Experience with distribution center operations, logistics network design, and warehouse implementations
• Experience with 3PL outsourcing and contract design
• Prosci or equivalent change management methodology
• Lean Six Sigma certification or methodology knowledge