Head of Programmes

Role Overview

This senior leadership position sits within a fast-growing and well-regarded defence and manufacturing business that delivers complex, high-value programmes for major UK customers. It offers the chance to shape delivery at scale and take on a career-defining leadership role as the organisation expands.

What You Will Lead

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will take ownership of the Programme Management Office (PMO), working with a multi-disciplinary team that includes Project Managers, a Programme Manager and a Project Controller. Your focus will be on strengthening delivery across the full programme lifecycle, from bidding and development through to serial production.

You will define the operating model, oversee portfolio governance and present programme performance to senior stakeholders across the business. The role comes with strong autonomy and the opportunity to create a high-performing PMO that sits at the heart of the company’s success.

Core Duties

• Build, lead and continuously improve the PMO, including its processes, governance structures, reporting practices and team capability.
• Monitor delivery across the portfolio, with attention to performance, risk, resource needs, financial exposure and links between projects.
• Serve as the main senior escalation contact for Project Managers, removing obstacles and encouraging alignment across functions.
• Take responsibility for portfolio financial reporting, including budgets, margins, Estimate at Completion and recovery actions.
• Present programme updates to senior leadership and key customers in a clear, evidence-led format.
• Promote a working culture grounded in accountability, openness, early escalation and collaborative problem-solving.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a seasoned programme, project or portfolio leader with substantial experience in a defence, manufacturing, aerospace or other tightly regulated setting. You should have a strong record of leading a PMO or multi-project delivery environment, ideally including direct line management of project professionals.

In addition, you should understand UK defence procurement, security and export control processes, and be comfortable dealing with the commercial side of delivery, including contracts, margin and broader business impact. Strong leadership, influencing and stakeholder management skills are essential for success in this role.

Security and Compliance

Applicants must be eligible to obtain and retain UK Security Clearance. Due to the nature of the work, candidates should either already hold current SC clearance or be able to secure it.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• There is strong scope for progression as the business grows, with increasing responsibility and board-level visibility.
• You will join a collaborative, high-performing environment where cross-functional teamwork is central and programme management is genuinely valued.
• The work supports UK defence capability and national security, giving the role clear purpose and impact.
• You will have the mandate and freedom to create a lasting, high-performing PMO that supports the company’s next stage of growth.

Additional Information

This role is based in the Isle of Wight, England, United Kingdom, and is a full-time onsite senior leadership position. Interested candidates should express their interest for a confidential discussion; suitable applicants will be contacted directly.

Equal Opportunities

The employer is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

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