Theo James Recruitment

Quality Manager Job Title: Quality Manager Location: County Durham Salary: 65,000 - 75,000 Benefits: Permanent, full-time position Senior leadership opportunity Stable, long-established engineering business Opportunity to influence company-wide quality standards Ongoing investment in people and manufacturing The Company Theo James Recruitment is delighted to be recruiting on behalf of a well-established engineering manufacturer with a reputation for producing highly engineered, safety-critical products. Operating within a technically demanding environment, the business continues to invest in its people, processes and facilities, making this an excellent opportunity for an experienced Quality Manager looking to make a genuine impact. Working Hours Monday to Friday Full-time Permanent Site-based Benefits Joining as the Quality Manager offers the opportunity to lead an experienced team, influence business performance, and play a key role in continuous improvement within a financially secure organisation that values quality and long-term development. Job Description As Quality Manager, you will report directly to the Plant Manager and take full responsibility for the Quality Management System across the site. You'll lead a multidisciplinary quality team, ensuring compliance with ISO 9001 while driving continuous improvement across manufacturing, inspection and testing activities. You'll oversee audits, supplier quality, root cause investigations, corrective actions and product compliance, working closely with production and engineering teams to deliver the highest quality standards. This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll champion best practice, develop your team and help improve operational performance across the business. Skills & Experience To be successful as Quality Manager, you'll ideally have: Previous experience as a Quality Manager within manufacturing or engineering. Strong knowledge of ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems. Lead Auditor experience would be advantageous. Experience leading and developing quality teams. Knowledge of root cause analysis, CAPA and continuous improvement methodologies. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. HNC, HND or Degree in Engineering or a related discipline is desirable. Why Should You Apply? If you're an experienced Quality Manager looking for a role where you can influence business performance, lead an established team and drive meaningful improvements, this is an excellent opportunity. Theo James Recruitment is proud to be supporting this appointment and welcomes applications from ambitious professionals seeking their next Quality Manager opportunity within a stable and growing engineering business.

Job Description Benefits: Competitive salary package (DOE) Strong development and progression opportunities Exposure to a national logistics network Supportive and collaborative working culture Opportunity to influence strategic delivery performance The Company: We are partnering with a well-established UK organisation operating within the manufacturing and distribution sector, with a strong focus on customer-led logistics and continuous operational improvement. This is an excellent opportunity to join a business that is investing heavily in its UK home delivery and last-mile capability, where innovation, performance, and service excellence are central to everything they do. The successful Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager will play a key role in shaping the future of direct-to-home logistics across the UK. Working Hours: Full-time, Monday to Friday (occasional flexibility required depending on operational needs) Job Description: The Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager is responsible for leading and optimising all UK direct-to-home logistics operations. The Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager will ensure efficient, cost-effective, and customer-focused delivery performance across the full last-mile network. The Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager will develop and implement logistics strategies aligned with wider business objectives, ensuring high standards of service delivery and operational excellence. A key part of the Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager role will be managing relationships with third-party carriers and delivery partners, including contract negotiation and performance management. The Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager will monitor key performance indicators such as on-time delivery, cost per drop, delivery accuracy, and customer satisfaction, driving continuous improvement across all areas of the operation. In addition, the Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager will utilise logistics systems and data analytics to improve route planning, scheduling, and overall efficiency. The Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager will also lead and develop a small operational team, promoting accountability, performance, and a strong service culture. Compliance with UK transport regulations, health & safety standards, and internal policies will also sit within the Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager remit. Skills & Experience: Proven experience in logistics, transport, or last-mile/home delivery operations Strong knowledge of UK distribution and transport networks Experience in carrier management / 3PL / third-party logistics Strong analytical skills with experience using KPI-driven reporting Excellent stakeholder management and negotiation skills Leadership experience within an operational logistics environment Experience in D2C, e-commerce, or direct delivery highly desirable Degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, or similar (desirable) Why Should You Apply? This is a rare opportunity for a Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager to take ownership of a critical UK home delivery function within a growing and forward-thinking organisation. As a Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager, you will directly influence customer experience, operational performance, and carrier network efficiency on a national scale. If you are a driven logistics professional looking for a role where you can make a tangible impact and shape delivery strategy, this Direct Serve Vendor (DSV) Manager opportunity offers exactly that.

Job Title: Engineering Manager Location: North East Salary: Highly Competitive The Company: A respected and growing manufacturing business with an international footprint, operating within a technically advanced and highly regulated environment. The organisation is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and continuous improvement, supported by strong investment in both technology and people. Job Description: An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Engineering Manager to take ownership of site engineering activities and long-term strategy. This role is central to ensuring the reliability and performance of manufacturing operations, while driving improvements across maintenance, projects, and overall operational efficiency. Working as part of the senior leadership team, you will be responsible for shaping engineering direction, delivering key projects, and fostering a proactive, improvement-led culture across the function. Key responsibilities include: Establishing and evolving maintenance frameworks that maximise equipment uptime and operational efficiency Leading the planning and execution of engineering and capital investment projects across the site Overseeing site facilities and ensuring all infrastructure is maintained to a high standard Managing third-party suppliers and contractors to support engineering and site services Promoting a culture of continuous improvement, embedding best practices across engineering and production Ensuring all engineering activities align with health, safety, and regulatory requirements Partnering with internal teams, including product development, to support innovation and process enhancements Using data and performance metrics to identify opportunities for optimisation and drive improvements Leading, mentoring, and developing an engaged and high-performing engineering team Skills Required: Strong background in engineering leadership within a manufacturing environment Experience developing maintenance strategies that improve reliability and reduce downtime Proven track record of delivering engineering or capital projects successfully Engineering qualification (mechanical, electrical, or related discipline) Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean or similar approaches Why Should You Apply? A strategic leadership role with genuine influence over site performance and direction Opportunity to join a progressive organisation focused on continuous improvement Exposure to a wide range of engineering challenges and projects Supportive environment that encourages development and progression Chance to make a tangible impact within a well-invested manufacturing operation

Job Title: Electrical Maintenance Engineer Location: Newton Aycliffe Salary: £45,000 - £50,000 Theo James Recruitment is delighted to be exclusively supporting Senstronics in the search for two Maintenance Engineers. Senstronics is a global manufacturer of pressure sensing technology, supplying into automotive, industrial and safety-critical markets. Operating from their Newton Aycliffe site, they continue to invest heavily in their people, equipment and long-term production capability. Due to significant growth and increasing output demands, they are strengthening their engineering function with the appointment of two newly created Maintenance Engineer positions. Competitive + Excellent Benefits Benefits: Competitive salary package Career progression opportunities Ongoing technical training & development Involvement in continuous improvement projects Collaborative engineering environment Exposure to cutting-edge automated manufacturing technology Pension & holiday allowance Employee wellbeing support Working Hours: Day Shift, Monday to Friday The Role . The role is designed to sit between the maintenance and engineering functions, supporting both reactive and planned activity, with a clear focus on improving reliability across the site. Working on a day shift, the successful candidates will play a key part in moving the business away from a reactive maintenance model towards a more structured, preventative approach. Key Responsibilities Fault finding and repair of manufacturing equipment Identifying root causes of repeat issues and implementing long-term solutions Supporting and improving planned preventative maintenance (PPM) Working closely with production to minimise downtime impact Contributing to continuous improvement across machinery and processes Supporting a shift towards a more proactive maintenance culture Candidate Profile Candidates will come from a manufacturing or industrial background and be comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment. Key requirements include: Multi-skilled maintenance experience (electrical bias preferred) Strong fault-finding and diagnostic ability Experience or exposure to planned preventative maintenance A proactive approach and willingness to take ownership Good communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally Ideally Degree qualified or relevant qualification Those with experience improving processes, reducing downtime, or supporting engineering-led improvements will be particularly well suited. About the Business Senstronics is a global manufacturer of pressure sensing technology, supplying into automotive and industrial markets. The Newton Aycliffe site operates in a high-spec, quality-driven environment and is continuing to expand its output capabilities. Having previously won Company of the Year they put a big emphasis on culture and their people This is a business focused on continuous improvement, with clear investment plans and a strong emphasis on operational performance. What s on Offer Day shift working pattern Competitive salary and benefits package Opportunity to contribute to meaningful operational improvements Long-term stability within a growing manufacturing business Scope to develop into more engineering or improvement-focused roles

Job Title: Business Development Manager Location: North Yorkshire (with hybrid flexibility) Salary: £42,000 - £50,000 The Company: This is an exciting opportunity to join a globally recognised engineering and technology business specialising in advanced sensing solutions. Operating across highly regulated and innovative sectors, the company delivers cutting-edge products used in critical environments worldwide. With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and employee development, the business offers a collaborative and supportive culture where individuals are encouraged to grow and make a real impact. Working Hours: Full-time, 39 hours per week Job Description: The Business Development Manager will play a key role in driving growth across global defence land markets. This Business Development Manager position blends new business development with strategic account management, focusing on identifying, shaping, and securing opportunities. As a Business Development Manager, you will engage with OEMs, system integrators, and defence organisations, building a strong pipeline and leading opportunities from early engagement through to contract award. The Business Development Manager will also be responsible for growing existing accounts, identifying upsell opportunities, and strengthening long-term client relationships. Key responsibilities include: Identifying and developing new defence land opportunities Building and managing a robust sales pipeline Leading bid/no-bid decisions and capture planning Managing and growing key customer accounts Supporting commercial negotiations and pricing strategies Providing market intelligence and supporting growth strategy Representing the business at industry events Skills & Experience: Minimum 5+ years experience in defence sales, business development, or account management Strong knowledge of defence procurement processes and contracting structures Experience within land systems, vehicles, or related environments Proven track record in winning new business and growing accounts Excellent stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and influencing skills Desirable: Experience working with OEMs or Tier 1 defence organisations Technical background in engineered or safety-critical systems International sales exposure Why Should You Apply? This Business Development Manager opportunity offers the chance to work in a high-impact role within a growing, forward-thinking organisation. You ll be part of a business that values innovation, invests in its people, and operates at the forefront of technology in critical global industries. If you re an experienced Business Development Manager looking for a role that combines strategic influence, international exposure, and genuine career progression, this is an excellent next step Only sole UK nationals eligible due to security clearance requirements.

Job Title: Bids & Proposals Manager Location: North Yorkshire (Hybrid) Salary: £45,000-£55,000 The Company Our client is a globally recognised engineering and manufacturing organisation, operating at the forefront of advanced sensing technology across defence, aerospace, and highly regulated industries. With a strong reputation for innovation, sustainability, and quality, they offer a collaborative and forward-thinking environment where employees can make a real impact on cutting-edge projects worldwide. Working Hours 39 hours per week (Hybrid working available) Job Description As a Bids & Proposals Manager, you will take ownership of end-to-end bid activity across global defence opportunities. The Bids & Proposals Manager will act as Bid Lead on key strategic tenders, ensuring submissions are high-quality, compliant, and commercially competitive. Working closely with cross-functional teams, the Bids & Proposals Manager will develop bid strategies, coordinate inputs, and drive successful outcomes across complex international projects. You ll lead bid planning, manage governance processes, and ensure all proposals align with wider business objectives. This Bids & Proposals Manager role will also involve supporting early-stage capture activities, contributing to win strategies, and engaging with stakeholders across engineering, commercial, and sales teams. The Bids & Proposals Manager will play a critical role in improving bid performance, win rates, and overall proposal quality. Skills & Experience Proven experience as a Bids & Proposals Manager (or similar) within defence or regulated industries Strong understanding of military procurement frameworks (MOD, NATO or similar) Experience managing complex tenders (RFPs, RFQs, ITTs) Commercial awareness with knowledge of contract structures Excellent written and organisational skills Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and deadlines Experience working in a hybrid or autonomous environment Desirable: Knowledge of export controls (e.g. ITAR, UK regulations) APMP or equivalent qualification Background in engineering or technical sectors Why Should You Apply? This is an exciting opportunity for a Bids & Proposals Manager to join a growing, innovative business working on high-impact global projects. You ll be part of a supportive and collaborative team, with real opportunities to influence major contract wins and shape strategic growth. If you re a driven Bids & Proposals Manager looking to step into a role where your work directly contributes to business success, this position offers both challenge and reward in equal measure. Only sole UK nationals eligible due to security clearance requirements.

Job Title: Contract Manager Defence Location: North Yorkshire (hybrid working available) Salary: £40,000-£50,000 DOE The Company: Our client is a globally recognised engineering and manufacturing organisation, operating at the forefront of advanced sensing technology across defence, aerospace, and highly regulated industries. With a strong reputation for innovation, sustainability, and quality, they offer a collaborative and forward-thinking environment where employees can make a real impact on cutting-edge projects worldwide. Job Description: The Contract Manager will take ownership of complex commercial contracts within a regulated defence environment, managing the full lifecycle from negotiation through to delivery and close-out. You will act as the key commercial interface, ensuring all contracts are compliant, commercially sound, and aligned with business objectives. The Contract Manager will also support bid activity, helping shape pricing strategies, risk positions, and contractual terms. Key responsibilities include: Managing contracts end-to-end, including negotiation and performance Leading on commercial strategy, balancing risk and opportunity Acting as the primary contact for customers and stakeholders Ensuring compliance with defence regulations and governance Managing contract changes, disputes, and performance metrics Supporting bids and tenders with commercial expertise Skills & Experience: To be successful in this Contract Manager role, you will need: Degree in Law, Business or similar Proven experience in contract management (3+ years) Background in a regulated environment (defence, public sector, etc.) Strong knowledge of contract law, pricing, and risk management Experience negotiating complex contracts Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills Ability to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC) Desirable: Experience working with defence organisations (e.g. MoD) Knowledge of government procurement processes Professional accreditation (IACCM or similar) Why Should You Apply? This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Contract Manager to step into a strategic, high-impact role within a growing and innovative organisation. You ll be working on meaningful defence projects, gaining exposure to complex, high-value contracts while being supported in your professional development. The Contract Manager role offers long-term career progression, a strong benefits package, and the chance to be part of a business that truly values its people. Only sole UK nationals eligible due to security clearance requirements.