Strategic Program Manager – Optics & Defence

Gooch & Housego; Llanfairfechan; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

26 days holiday

Company pension

Company bonus scheme

Health Cash Plan

Referral bonus

Job summary

Gooch & Housego is seeking a Programme Manager to oversee projects across our Innovation Hub and Ilminster sites, delivering on-time and under budget while enabling new programmes with costed proposals.

You will manage cross-functional teams, coordinate with Sales, Engineering, and Operations, and drive program governance across multiple sites including St. Asaph, Ilminster, and Plymouth. This role requires strong leadership in defence programs and excellent stakeholder communication.

Qualifications

• 5+ years managing multi-million dollar programs.
• Degree in engineering, science, or business.
• Technical knowledge in at least one of mechanical design, optics or electronics.
• Experience in defence programs.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and govern project portfolio with technical and financial oversight.
• Develop SOWs, plans and budgets; coordinate with Engineering, Supply Chain and Operations.
• Schedule and chair customer program reviews and ensure timely delivery.
• Identify Profit Improvement opportunities and manage risk.

Skills

Management experience

Defence programs

Budget management

Stakeholder communication

Education

Engineering/Science/Business degree

Job description

Gooch & Housego is seeking a Programme Manager to oversee projects across our Innovation Hub and Ilminster sites, delivering on-time and under budget while enabling new programmes with costed proposals.

You will manage cross-functional teams, coordinate with Sales, Engineering, and Operations, and drive program governance across multiple sites including St. Asaph, Ilminster, and Plymouth. This role requires strong leadership in defence programs and excellent stakeholder communication.