Senior Project Manager
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to lead the successful delivery of complex projects, with a particular focus on the defense industry and high-security infrastructure. This role will require a strong understanding of project governance, risk management, and stakeholder engagement in highly regulated environments.
The ideal candidate will have a track record of delivering large-scale programmes, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring compliance with safety, security, and regulatory requirements. The role requires a proactive leader who can drive excellence, mitigate risks, and deliver client requirements with precision.Key Responsibilities
Project Leadership & DeliveryLead the end-to-end management of high-value projects within the defence and infrastructure sectors.
Ensure alignment with client requirements, governance frameworks, and security protocols.
Oversee planning, budgeting, risk management, and resource allocation.
Stakeholder & Client EngagementAct as the primary liaison between Project Leaders Ltd and key defense sector clients.
Build and maintain strong relationships with government bodies, contractors, and industry stakeholders.
Represent Project Leaders Ltd in high-level client meetings and industry forums.
Governance, Compliance & SecurityEnsure compliance with Defense Standards (Def Stan), MOD frameworks, and relevant security clearances.
Implement and oversee governance structures, ensuring projects align with ISO, HMG Security Policy Framework, and Cyber Essentials.
Promote a culture of safety, compliance, and continuous improvement.
Risk & Change ManagementIdentify, assess, and mitigate project risks, ensuring robust contingency plans.
Manage project change effectively, ensuring minimal disruption to scope, cost, and timelines.
Report against client requirements, demonstrating progress and strategic alignment.
Team Leadership & DevelopmentMentor and develop project teams, ensuring high performance and alignment with organizational values.
Promote knowledge-sharing and best practices within the business.
Identify opportunities for business growth and talent development.
Required Skills & Experience
Essential: ✔ Proven experience in project management within the defence, infrastructure, or high-security environments.
✔ Strong knowledge of MOD projects, Defence Standards (Def Stan), and security frameworks.✔ Expertise in project planning, governance, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
✔ Ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects in highly regulated industries.
✔ Excellent communication and leadership skills, with experience leading multi-disciplinary teams.
✔ Strong financial and commercial acumen, with experience managing large budgets.
✔ Familiarity with APM, PRINCE2, or equivalent project management methodologies.
Desirable: ✔ Security clearance (SC or DV), or eligibility to obtain clearance.
✔ Experience in managing rail, energy, or infrastructure projects alongside defense.✔ Chartered Project Professional (ChPP), APM Registered Project Professional (RPP), or equivalent.
✔ Knowledge of UK Government procurement processes, Cyber Essentials, and defence acquisition frameworks.
Security Clearance
Due to the nature of the projects, SC (Security Check) or DV (Developed Vetting) clearance is beneficial. Candidates without current clearance should be willing and eligible to undergo the required vetting process.