Senior Engineering Program Manager

Senior Engineering Program ManagerSalfords, Surrey, RH1 5GGRapiscan SystemsLead the Development of World-Class Security TechnologyAt Rapiscan Systems, we are a global leader in detection technology, delivering advanced cargo, vehicle, and checkpoint inspection solutions that help secure borders, ports, airports, military installations, and critical infrastructure worldwide. Our innovative X-ray inspection systems play a vital role in combating terrorism, drug smuggling, illegal immigration, and trade fraud.As we continue to expand our Aviation Checkpoint Inspection portfolio, we are seeking an experienced and driven Senior Engineering Program Manager to lead complex new product development programs and drive the successful delivery of cutting-edge security technologies.The OpportunityReporting into the Engineering leadership team, the Senior Engineering Program Manager will take ownership of a portfolio of engineering projects, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This is a highly visible role requiring exceptional stakeholder management, leadership, and project management expertise within a technology or engineering-led environment.You will work closely with Chief Engineers, Operations, Product Management, and cross-functional teams to bring innovative products from concept through to launch while continuously improving project governance, processes, and portfolio management practices.Key ResponsibilitiesManage multiple engineering programs and projects within the Aviation Checkpoint Inspection business.Define project scope, objectives, schedules, milestones, and deliverables.Lead cross-functional new product development projects from concept through product launch.Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring alignment and effective communication.Develop and maintain detailed project plans, schedules, budgets, and resource forecasts.Facilitate project meetings, monitor progress, and drive timely completion of actions.Identify, assess, and manage project risks, issues, and dependencies, implementing effective mitigation plans.Escalate significant risks and challenges to senior leadership where appropriate.Ensure successful completion of product development stage-gate reviews and key project milestones.Maintain project reporting, tracking tools, dashboards, and performance metrics.Support portfolio planning, resource allocation, and project prioritisation across the engineering function.Analyse project financials, budgets, resource requirements, and change impacts.Drive consistency and continuous improvement in project governance, standards, and processes.Provide clear and concise project status updates to senior management and executive stakeholders.Ensure compliance with company processes, quality standards, and documentation requirements.Champion Rapiscan Systems' values of Integrity, Innovation, Accountability, and Teamwork.About YouYou are an experienced program or project management professional who thrives in a fast-paced engineering environment and enjoys leading complex technology-driven initiatives.Essential RequirementsBachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Project Management, or a related discipline.Minimum of 5 years' experience managing programmes or projects within engineering, technology, or product development environments.Proven experience delivering complex new product development projects.Experience managing the full project lifecycle from concept through launch.Strong leadership and people management capability.Experience creating and managing detailed project schedules across multiple stakeholders.Excellent risk management, planning, and organisational skills.Strong financial and budget management experience.Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills in English.DesirablePRINCE2 and/or PMP certification.Knowledge and practical experience of Agile and Scrum methodologies.Experience working within a high-technology manufacturing or engineering environment.Personal AttributesStrong leadership presence with the ability to influence at all levels.Highly organised with excellent prioritisation skills.Able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.Analytical, proactive, and solution-focused.Adaptable and comfortable working in a dynamic environment.Collaborative team player who builds strong relationships.Detail-oriented with the ability to think strategically and execute effectively.Enthusiastic, approachable, and committed to continuous improvement.