Centurion Safety Products is a leading global manufacturer of innovative Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), specialising in above-the-neck protection. With a reputation for quality, safety, and innovation, we are committed to developing world-class products that protect workers across a wide range of industries.
We are seeking an experienced and commercially aware Technical Manager to lead our Technical Team and drive innovation across our product portfolio. Reporting directly to the CEO, this is a key leadership role responsible for delivering technical excellence, managing New Product Development (NPD) programmes, and supporting Centurion's long-term business objectives through continuous improvement and sustainable manufacturing practices.
Main purpose of role:
As Technical Manager, you will provide strategic and operational leadership to the Technical Team, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest technical standards. You will work closely with internal departments, manufacturing partners, suppliers, and industry bodies to strengthen Centurion's position as a global leader in PPE innovation.
Key Accountabilities and Responsibilities:
- Lead, mentor, and develop the Technical Team, managing priorities, workloads, and technical quality standards.
- Oversee key NPD programmes from concept through to launch, ensuring delivery against agreed timelines, budgets, and business objectives.
- Drive innovation through global technology partnerships and continuous product development improvements.
- Manage technical decision-making across new and existing product portfolios, collaborating closely with manufacturing partners.
- Work cross-functionally with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Operations to support commercially successful product development initiatives.
- Support continuous improvement activities across technical systems, processes, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
- Manage and enhance CAD and Product Data Management (PDM) systems, identifying opportunities for increased efficiency and effectiveness.
- Represent Centurion externally with industry bodies, research and development partners, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
Educational qualifications or experience:
Essential:
- Degree-qualified in a relevant engineering or design discipline, with Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or equivalent experience preferred.
- Proven experience leading teams through product development, prototyping, verification, and validation stages.
- Strong technical knowledge of CAD, PDM systems, rapid prototyping, injection moulding, and manufacturing processes.
- Experience conducting FMEA workshops and Design Reviews.
- Excellent leadership, communication, organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Desirable:
- Experience with simulation and modelling software such as Moldflow, FEA, or MATLAB.
- Knowledge of Design for Manufacture (DFM), Lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality management systems and PPE industry standards.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively with a passion for innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
Your skills and dedication can make a real impact. Apply today!
Closing date for applications: Friday 12th June 2026
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £53,000.00-£55,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Thetford
