Product Development Leader(UK visa sponsorship available)

Job Description

Summary

We are seeking a Product Development Leader to shape the future of Dowty’s product portfolio, driving projects from early-stage technology development through to full product qualification and certification. You will lead the creation and execution of product and technology roadmaps, ensuring alignment with customer needs, market trends, and business priorities. Managing a team of technology specialists and engineering project managers, you will enhance our technical capabilities, oversee project delivery, and ensure Dowty remains at the forefront of aerospace propeller innovation.

About Dowty Propellers

Dowty Propellers is a world leader in advanced propeller systems, with expertise spanning design, development, manufacture, certification, and global support. Our electrohydraulic-controlled, variable-pitch, all-composite propellers are trusted in a wide range of applications—from commercial regional aircraft and military transporters to seaplanes and hovercraft.

We have pioneered industry-first innovations, such as the all-composite propeller blade and the first full-authority digital propeller control. With over 25,000 blades delivered and some reaching 50,000 flight hours, our reputation is built on safety, reliability, and performance. Supported by global service hubs across Europe, North America, and Australia, we deliver world-class solutions for today’s aviation needs while advancing technologies to meet the sustainability demands of tomorrow.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Development: Work cross-functionally to maintain product and technology roadmaps, ensuring alignment with business strategy, market developments, and customer requirements.

Execution Planning: Build and manage delivery plans that balance investment, resources, and business priorities, coordinating closely with programme management.

Team Leadership: Lead and develop the product development team, overseeing recruitment, training, mentoring, and performance management.

Resource Planning: Collaborate with engineering discipline leaders to align technical capabilities with business needs and future growth.

Technical Direction: Partner with technical authorities to align on development needs, share expertise, and uphold best practices.

Process & Excellence: Drive technical excellence, enhance engineering processes, and support continuous improvement.

Financial Oversight: Manage budgets, monitor project spend, and approve costs in line with business policies.

Lean Practices: Champion Lean principles, daily management routines, and process improvements.

Reporting & Communication: Provide regular updates on project status, risks, opportunities, and business performance.

Leadership Team Contribution: Actively participate in the engineering leadership team to improve processes, resolve issues, and strengthen overall delivery.

Required Qualifications

Extensive experience in engineering, technology, or functional management.

Qualification equivalent to a Master’s degree (or significant professional experience).

Desired Experience & Skills

Aerospace or regulated-industry background, ideally with UKCAA/EASA Part-21 Design Organisation experience.

Strong knowledge of complex systems (mechanical, aircraft control, electronic, or hydro-mechanical).

Experience with technology roadmapping and capability development.

Proven ability to lead complex engineering projects/programmes.

Strong customer relationship management skills.

Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.

Flexible Working

We support flexible working arrangements wherever possible to promote a healthy work-life balance.

Rewards & Benefits

We offer a competitive total rewards package through our FlexChoice plan, including:

Non-contributory pension scheme

Life assurance

Group income protection

Private medical cover

Equivalent of 26 days’ holiday, with options to buy or sell leave

Security Clearance

This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance. Applicants must meet and maintain this standard. More details: UK Government BPSS Guidance

Right to Work

Applicants requiring UK work sponsorship will be considered alongside all others. However, preference may be given to candidates with an existing right to work if a suitably qualified applicant is available. For details, visit the UK Visas and Immigration website
.