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Planet Pharma

Lead Project Engineer

On site

Farnborough, United kingdom

Senior

Freelance

23-02-2026

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Skills

Communication Leadership Stakeholder Management Negotiation Research Project Management Recruitment

Job Specifications

We are looking for an experienced End-to-End Project Lead to take full ownership of a major capital investment program in the UK.

This role will lead the delivery of a state-of-the-art R&D laboratory campus — overseeing the project lifecycle from detailed design and construction through commissioning, validation, operational readiness, and final handover.

This is a high-impact leadership role requiring strong technical expertise, commercial acumen, and the ability to lead complex, cross-functional teams.

The Role

You will be accountable for:

Leading the full lifecycle delivery of a large-scale CAPEX program
Translating early design scope into executable project plans, budgets, and timelines
Managing governance structures and chairing Steering Committee forums
Driving cross-functional alignment across engineering, safety, quality, procurement, IT, finance, C&V, and operations
Overseeing contractor and vendor relationships, including contract negotiation
Ensuring compliance with UK regulatory requirements, biosafety standards, and building regulations (including CDM)
Managing risk, resolving complex challenges, and maintaining financial control
Leading commissioning, validation, and operational transition into the new facility
Building and developing a high-performing project team

About You

Master’s degree in Engineering, Science, or related discipline
PMP certification (or equivalent) preferred
Extensive experience delivering large capital projects within biotech or pharmaceutical environments
Proven track record of delivering large-scale CAPEX projects on time and within budget
Strong knowledge of project management methodologies and tools (MS Project, Primavera, etc.)
Deep understanding of regulated environments and compliance standards
Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills
Comfortable operating in dynamic, high-pressure environments

Why This Role?

This is a rare opportunity to lead the creation of a flagship research campus that will shape future scientific innovation in the UK. You will play a pivotal role in delivering a future-proof facility aligned with global R&D strategy.

If you’re ready to lead a transformational capital program from concept to completion, we’d love to hear from you.

We are an equal opportunities Recruitment Business and Agency. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.

www.planet-pharma.com

About the Company

Founded in 2012, Planet Pharma has a dedicated team of seasoned professionals with extensive experience supporting the Life Sciences industry, specifically: - Medical Device - Pharmaceuticals - Diagnostics - Biotechnology - CRO - CMO - Specialty Providers - Labs/ Healthcare Our goal is to create an organization that strengthens the employer-employee dynamic by connecting clients with talent — ultimately making staffing more personal and creating enduring, valuable relationships. We achieve this by leveraging cuttin... Know more