Project Manager - R&D Defence Technology
Salary: £100,000 - £110,000 per annum
Location: Romsey (Hybrid Working)

Benefits: 6% Bonus, 6% pension, 30 days annual leave + Bank Holidays, Bupa Healthcare

Overview

This role sits at the heart of advanced research, development, and product innovation, working closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams developing next-generation hardware and embedded systems solutions.

We are seeking an experienced and technically aware Project Manager to lead R&D and product development programmes spanning hardware, PCB design, embedded software, and integrated systems. The successful candidate will manage projects from early-stage research and prototyping through to product delivery and operational deployment.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the delivery of R&D and product development programmes involving hardware platforms, PCB design, embedded software, and integrated technology systems.

Manage the full product development lifecycle from concept and research through prototyping, validation, and delivery.

Lead the preparation and delivery of technical bids and proposals, working closely with engineering and commercial teams to develop compelling solutions.

Coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams across electronics, embedded software, systems engineering, and integration.

Support and manage rapid prototyping and accelerated development cycles, enabling fast innovation and iteration.

Plan and coordinate participation in technology trials, demonstrations, and customer evaluations.

Work closely with engineering teams to translate customer requirements into structured development plans and deliverable products.

Manage project schedules, budgets, risks, and dependencies across complex development programmes.

Maintain project plans covering design, development, integration, testing, and product delivery phases.

Ensure requirements management, configuration control, and documentation are maintained throughout the development lifecycle.

Lead cross-functional teams and create an environment that supports innovation, technical excellence, and delivery focus.

Manage financial performance across projects, including revenue forecasting, cost control, and profitability.

Skills & Experience

Strong experience managing R&D and product development programmes involving hardware, electronics, PCB design, and embedded software.

Proven track record of delivering complex technology development projects from early research through to product delivery.

Experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams, including hardware, firmware, embedded software, and systems engineers.

Familiarity with rapid prototyping environments and accelerated development cycles.

Strong understanding of technology development lifecycles, including concept development, prototyping, integration, testing, and validation