Holt Engineering Recruitment Ltd
Engineering Manager
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Mechanical Group Leader
Location: Horsham
Salary: £80,000 - £85,000 DOE
We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Group Leader to join a high-performing engineering team in Horsham. This is a senior leadership role within a defence-focused environment, offering the opportunity to lead talented mechanical engineers working on advanced electro-mechanical systems for surveillance, fire-control, and radar positioning applications.
This role will suit a confident technical leader who can combine strong mechanical design expertise with people management, strategic thinking, and a passion for innovation. You will be responsible for guiding the team through the full system lifecycle, from concept and analysis through to design, delivery, and continuous improvement.
The Role
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of mechanical engineers.
- Provide technical guidance and support on complex engineering challenges.
- Drive continuous improvement across tools, training, and engineering processes.
- Monitor team performance and support staff development through regular 1:1s, mentoring, and personal development planning.
- Support sales activity by defining mechanical requirements, developing concept solutions, and contributing to bids and estimates.
- Work with Integrated Portfolio Teams to manage resources and support recruitment planning.
- Collaborate with systems, software, electronics, and electrical teams to ensure smooth integration.
- Contribute to engineering strategy, team objectives, and long-term planning.
- Keep the business informed of emerging technologies and industry developments.
- Ensure all design activity meets safety, regulatory, and defence industry requirements.
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The Ideal Candidate
- Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
- Extensive experience designing and delivering complex mechanisms and structures.
- Proven leadership experience managing projects and people.
- Strong background in design analysis and performance calculations, including FEA.
- Experience designing equipment for harsh or demanding environments.
- Confident working on bids and engaging with customers on new business opportunities.
- Strong track record in innovation and concept development.
- Committed to continuous improvement.
- Broad knowledge of manufacturing techniques including machining, sheet metal forming, casting, fabrication, and moulding.
- Experience with electromechanical drive mechanisms such as motors, gearboxes, and ballscrews.
- Understanding of mechanical requirements driven by electrical and optical components.
- Experience using SolidWorks and SolidWorks PDM.
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