Director (Consultant) – Manufacturing and Engineering Full Time NEW

The Role

A client in the advanced manufacturing and engineering sector is seeking a Director-level Consultant to join the team for a short-term engagement.

You will lead the delivery of a New Product Development (NPD) acceleration programme for a complex, low-volume platform manufacturer, working closely with senior leadership and engineering teams. Reporting into the executive leadership team, the objective is to improve product development performance, governance, and cross-functional integration.

Responsibilities

• Advise senior leadership on optimising NPD and NPI processes for complex, low-volume manufacturing programmes

• Design and implement Stage-Gate frameworks and Chief Engineer governance models

• Lead modular architecture and platform strategy initiatives within engineering functions

• Apply systems engineering methodologies (QFD, MFD, DSM) to improve cross-functional integration

• Deliver platform rationalisation across portfolios of multiple product variants

• Support PLM and digital thread enhancements

• Translate capability gaps into prioritised, costed investment roadmaps

• Lead end-to-end transformation programmes and support sustained adoption

Requirements

• Proven Director-level experience within a top-tier consultancy

• Strong track record in NPD/NPI optimisation in complex, low-volume manufacturing environments

• Deep expertise in product development governance (Stage-Gate, Chief Engineer models)

• Experience across sectors such as automotive, aerospace, marine, or defence

• Demonstrated capability in modular architecture, platform strategy, and engineering transformation

• Practical experience with systems engineering methodologies and PLM technologies

• Strong senior stakeholder engagement and programme leadership skills

Details

• Start date: May 15 2026

• Duration: 4–6 weeks

• Day rate: LTD- Outside IR35

• Location: Client site visits and events