Strategic Project Lead

This role will be working for Bekstone and will provide strategic leadership and hands-on support across all stages of the programme, ensuring effective planning, sequencing, and delivery of key initiatives. The position combines technical expertise with strategic oversight and will play a critical role in shaping the future manufacturing platform. Key Responsibilities 1. Strategic Project Leadership Provide leadership across a multi-phase operational development programme Validate and challenge the overall investment strategy and sequencing Ensure alignment between operational priorities and long-term business objectives 2. Operational Roadmap Development Support the design and implementation of an end-to-end operational roadmap Identify bottlenecks and improvement opportunities across production processes 3. Supplier & Procurement Oversight Oversee supplier selection and engagement Support procurement strategy to ensure cost-effective and timely delivery Provide challenge and governance on supplier performance 4. Implementation Support & Challenge Provide hands-on support during implementation phases Act as a critical challenger to ensure robust execution Monitor progress against targets and intervene where required 5. Board & Investment Support Support preparation of board-level presentations and business cases Assist in securing investment approval through structured analysis and evidence Communicate programme progress and risks clearly to stakeholders Experience & Skills Required Essential Strong experience in manufacturing or heavy industrial operations Proven track record in large-scale operational or capital projects Ability to lead complex, multi-phase programmes Experience with process optimisation and production systems Strong commercial and strategic thinking Desirable Experience with kiln systems or similar industrial processes Knowledge of automation and plant upgrades M&A integration or multi-site operational experience Engagement Details Approx. 2–3 days per week Duration: ~18 months (flexible depending on project stage) Hybrid involvement across strategy, governance, and on-site support