Program Manager

Howdens are looking for an experienced Program Manager to join our Central Engineering team, supporting the planning, implementation, and tracking of strategically important projects across the Howden Manufacturing site.

In this role, you will take ownership of coordinating and reporting on our full project portfolio. Working closely with Engineers, Project Managers, and wider stakeholders, you will help develop project programs, maintain the department Master Schedule, ensure compliance with business objectives, and keep senior leadership fully informed on progress, risks, and key decisions.

We’re looking for someone who embodies our values, brings strong organisational skills, and confidently challenges, innovates, and strives for continuous improvement.

Location | Howden, East Yorkshire

Reporting to | Head of site development

Why join Howdens as a Program Manager?

• Major investment in manufacturing capabilities across all Howdens manufacturing sites, with an annual capital investment plan of £45–70m.
• A strong, long-term investment strategy focused on growth and capability.
• Be at the forefront of turning strategic plans into reality—directly supporting delivery across a large and influential engineering function.
• Opportunity to work on high-impact, complex projects with visibility across senior teams.
• Join a growing team with real opportunities to progress.

What will you be doing as a Program Manager?

• Liaising with Project Managers and Engineers to develop detailed project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Reviewing and challenging project programs submitted by external contractors.
• Supporting Engineers with the preparation, monitoring, and updating of project programs.
• Consolidating all project programs into a single Master Schedule Portfolio and managing interdependencies and delivery timelines.
• Working with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project requirements are understood and achieved.
• Preparing and delivering regular updates to senior management, covering progress, risks, decisions required, budget status, and escalations.
• Monitoring program compliance with organisational standards and regulatory requirements.
• Identifying risks and supporting Engineers in developing mitigation strategies.
• Embedding best practices and lessons learned to improve project delivery.
• Supporting the development of capital approval documentation, including business cases and cashflow forecasts.
• Scheduling meetings, preparing agendas, taking minutes, and maintaining accurate project documentation, reports, and presentations.

What do you need to qualify for this role?

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business Administration, Project Management, or a related field.
• A recognised program or project management professional qualification.
• Proven experience in driving continuous improvement.
• Strong understanding of project management principles and experience working with multiple stakeholders on large or complex engineering projects.
• Proficiency in project management tools, including Asana.
• Strong communication, organisation, and decision-making skills.

What we can offer:

• Competitive salary and bonus scheme.
• Excellent pension scheme (company contribution up to 12%).
• Free daily meal at the on-site canteen.
• 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional days.
• Share save scheme.
• Exceptional reward and recognition events.

About Howdens:

Howdens Joinery is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier providing thousands of products across kitchens, joinery, and hardware. We have over 900 depots throughout the UK and Europe – making us the first choice for more than 460,000 loyal trade professionals. With an ambitious and credible growth plan, we continue to build on our £2.3 billion sales made last year.

There is a strong entrepreneurial ethos and the opportunity to develop within a fast-paced and commercial environment. That, along with a competitive salary, development opportunities, and exciting rewards, are among the reasons why our people enjoy working for Howdens – and why we have been named as one of the 10 Best Big Companies to Work For.

How to Apply:

We are shaping a future where exceptional service, innovation, and sustainability are at the core of everything we do. If you're looking for a place where you can grow and advance your career, Howdens could be the perfect fit. Join a team that prioritises innovation, safety, and excellence. If you're ready to lead impactful projects and drive meaningful change, we encourage you to apply today.

Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitmentteam@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.

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