Skip to main content
Search
Search Jobs

Two individuals working on laptops at separate round tables near large windows with a view of buildings outside

Design Reference Group - Technology & Product Manager

Southampton, United Kingdom

Contract Type Permanent
Career Level Experienced Professional
Functions Operations
Salary Range Competitive salary
tomorrow can't wait logo
Why Operations? Overview

Why Operations?

We intelligently connect our teams globally enabling thinking beyond conventional boundaries. We share knowledge at an unfathomable pace, facilitate cross-functional collaboration and transform processes to create the world’s best operational network. Our work enables our experts to feel in control of their ability to explore New Categories, acquire fresh expertise and accelerate the rate at which they can deliver results.

Top employer 2025 logo

Why BAT?

At BAT, we’re committed to more than just jobs, we’re dedicated to purposeful careers - It's one of the many reasons we have been named as a Global Top Employer for the eighth consecutive year.

We believe that Leadership shouldn’t be confined to titles. It’s a mindset and through our leading Learning and Development programmes, you’ll continuously develop your skills and experience. With our unwavering support, you’ll work in cross functional teams connecting with industry leaders and expanding your professional network.

Join us at BAT, where purpose meets possibility, and your career story unfolds.

A Better Tomorrow

Building a Smokeless World is no small feat—it’s fueled by the collective efforts of talented individuals, each bringing their unique perspective. This is the most innovative chapter in BAT’s history, and you can help shape it.

Strategy and Purpose Brand and Innovation

Design Reference Group - Technology & Product Manager

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World. 
To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey! Tomorrow can’t wait, let’s shape it together!

BAT UKIS LOOKING FOR A DESIGN REFERENCE GROUP - TECHONOLGY & PRODUCT MANAGER

JOB TYPE: Permanent

FUNCTION:Operations - Manufacturing

SALARY RANGE:Competitive salary package + excellent benefits + market leading bonus

LOCATION:Southampton, United Kingdom

ROLE SUMMARY

What are the key objectives and expectations from this role?

Manufacturing Sites - Internal <50

Manufacturing Sites - External / Outsourced >5

Manufacturing Assets Global >10,000

Reports to

Global Head of Manufacturing Technology

Number of Direct Reports

4

Core Relationships

Internal - Regional Engineering Manager - Global Platform Managers - Head of Infrastructure and Footprint - Factory Operation Managers - Ops Directors - New Categories

- R&D Directors - New Cats - IPMs - New Cats

External - Direct Material Category Manager - OEM's - Strategic equipment vendors - Ancillary equipment vendors - Direct material suppliers

Geographic Scope

Global

Travel Required

Yes

ROLE DUTIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

  • Drive machine design and construction standards in partnership with GPM's, R&D and drive standardization of platform technology across multiple product categories
  • Build, maintain & drive standardization of production platforms across categories
  • Compose and maintain an updated global repository of both strategic and non-strategic assets with machine & product specifications
  • Develop and maintain an updated global repository of active materials (both raw and pack) along with technical specifications
  • Compose technical standards for all materials (direct) including suppliers, specifications and quality relevant to technology platforms
  • Be the one single source for all technical specifications related to both machine and materials
  • Own and run the Centre of Expertise for Technology for a group of machinery. Develop capability within the factory network. Encourage collaboration, reapplication, standardisation, and the development of machinery modifications.
  • Be the Centre of Expertise for Direct Materials application to technology, drive the right first-time approach for all sourcing changes, COGS improvement projects in partnership with directs procurement & factories
  • In partnership with GPM's, Define and implement technical standards for machine design that include electronics, electrical components, construction materials, Integrated materials, Quality control mechanisms
  • In partnership with Direct Procurement, create technical standards for direct materials to ensure optimized cogs, wastages, product quality are delivered at the best levels

EXPERIENCE, SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE

Experience Required

  • Engineering background with an experience of BAT technology platforms and materials preferred
  • Proficient in crafting standards for machines, materials and CBA reapplications
  • In-depth knowledge of manufacturing technologies and solutions as per different product categories
  • Experience of working across geographies and of matrixed partner management
  • Background in direct materials with an understanding of direct materials quality, suppliers and specifications

Technical / Functional / Leadership Skills Required

  • Strong engineering knowledge and technical understanding of machinery
  • Proficient in BAT OEM eco-system and technology
  • Well versed in BAT direct material eco system and specifications
  • Strong ability to manage & mitigate risks and issues
  • Ability to work in a sophisticated, fast paced environment with multiple partners
  • Able to engage influence and acquire agreement proposals within a global matrix organization without direct line authority
  • Capability to coordinate sophisticated technical and global projects at a high pace

Education / Qualifications / Certifications Required

  • Graduate or higher

BELONGING, ACHIEVING, TOGETHER
Collaboration, diversity and teamwork underpin everything we do here at BAT. We know that collaborating with colleagues from different backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals. Come bring your difference!

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation!

What we offer you?

  • We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
  • Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives.
  • Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
  • You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills.
  • We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes.

WHY JOIN BAT?
We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

At BAT, we champion collaboration, inclusion, and partnership as the bedrock of our values. We wish to foster an environment where every individual can thrive, irrespective of factors such as gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, as well as diverse perspectives and thinking styles. We recognise that our strength lies in embracing talent from all walks of life, empowering us to develop our culture of inclusivity and better achieve our business objectives.


We view career breaks not as obstacles but as opportunities and encourage everyone, without hesitation, to apply. Through our Global Returners program, we provide support to professionals seeking to re-enter the workforce after an extended absence, be it for family care, parental leave, national service, sabbatical, or starting their own venture.
Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.

We take pride in being a Disability Confident Employer. If you need any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to be made during the recruitment process to support you performing at your best, please inform the recruitment partner who will be in touch should your profile be selected for the role you applied for. We are wholeheartedly committed to optimising your prospects of success by making suitable arrangements so that you may showcase your full potential.

Apply Now

Values

At BAT, our values show us the way to bring our purpose to life. Serving as our compass, they navigate every aspect of our path towards A Better Tomorrow™ defining how we innovate, grow, and achieve success while setting high standards for individual achievement and collective progress. Rooted in integrity and collaboration, they empower us as pioneers of change in a world that never stands still ensuring we shape BAT's legacy with confidence and purpose.

Colorful circular design with the text 'WE ARE BAT' in the center
  • Truly inclusive
  • Do the right thing
  • Love for our consumer
  • Passion to win
  • Empowered through trust
  • Stronger together
Person in a suit speaking to an audience, with two screens behind displaying 'EMPOWERED THROUGH TRUST' and 'STRONGER TOGETHER'.

Take Control of Your Future with BAT

At BAT, we’re committed to more than just jobs, we’re dedicated to purposeful careers.

We believe that everyone has a place in our organization. Whether you are seeking mentorship, diversifying your experience through international assignments or embracing innovative work methods, we’re here to propel your career aspirations and unleash your full potential.

We believe in you.
Join us at BAT, where purpose meets possibility, and your career story unfolds.

Employee Image

“One of my job responsibilities is leading initiatives that develop new capabilities for our operations team. In our Nairobi factory, we’re devoted to closing gaps and reducing losses that might happen in manufacturing processes and improving operational results.”

Benefits

At our core, we understand your best work happens when you feel fully supported. Our meticulously
designed reward and benefits package are shaped to acknowledge your contributions and to magnify
your impact. As you grow, so do we.

This section contain controls for the upcoming carousel.

Social Wellbeing

Wellbeing is better when it’s shared. Benefits that foster a sense of community and connection among employees. The more time we make to give back and share what it means to live well with the communities around us, the closer we’ll be to them. We encourage positive social interactions inside and outside BAT, enhance collaboration, and create a supportive work environment where employees feel valued and connected.

Emotional Wellbeing

Balancing work and life to help you recharge and stay resilient. Benefits and initiatives that are designed to bolster our employees' mental health. At BAT we're fostering a culture of to help our employees to better manage life’s pressures and build resilience, no matter what life throws your way.

Physical Wellbeing

Good health is the cornerstone that allows everything else in our lives to align. Benefits that support our employees' physical health, expand coverage where needed it and promote healthy lifestyles, reducing stress and boosting overall energy and productivity.

Financial Wellbeing

Peace of mind is priceless, but it shouldn’t cost the earth. Benefits and initiatives designed to assist you in achieving financial stability and security, empowering you to make well informed financial decisions, alleviate financial stress, and enhance your short and long-term prospects.

Personalised Jobs

You haven't viewed any jobs yet

You haven't saved any jobs yet.

Related Content