IT Programme Manager

IT Programme Manager

Cambridge Full-Time 104000 - 124000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
J

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead IT Transition Service Agreements for a strategic divestment programme in the defence sector.
  • Company: Join a mission-driven aerospace and defence company focused on innovation and national security.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and excellent benefits.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of IT services while ensuring operational continuity and compliance in a dynamic environment.
  • Qualifications: 10+ years in IT leadership with M&A experience; knowledge of compliance standards is a plus.
  • Other info: This is a fixed-term contract role based in Cambridge, requiring BPSS and SC clearance.

The predicted salary is between 104000 - 124000 £ per year.

Our Aerospace & Defence client are seeking a seasoned IT Programme Manager to lead the planning and execution of Transition Service Agreements (TSAs) as part of a strategic divestment programme. You will be responsible for ensuring the seamless transition of IT services, infrastructure, and support from the parent organisation to the newly divested company, while maintaining operational continuity, compliance, and security.

The ideal candidate will bring deep experience in IT integration/separation, M&A, and defence industry requirements with knowledge of CMMC, NIST, and ITAR compliance an advantage.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Programme Ownership: Lead the end-to-end delivery of IT Transition Service Agreements, ensuring agreed services are delivered to quality, time, and budget.
  • Stakeholder Management: Act as the primary interface between internal business units, IT functions, external suppliers, and the receiving entity, maintaining trust and alignment throughout the transition lifecycle.
  • Planning & Execution: Develop and manage the IT TSA programme plan, including dependencies, separation planning, milestones, resource allocation, risk mitigation and TSA Turn down planning.
  • Service Continuity: Ensure the uninterrupted delivery of IT services during the IT TSA period and oversee a smooth handover of services post-transition.
  • Governance & Compliance: Operate within defence industry regulatory requirements, including data security, export controls, and service assurance, ensuring the transition is compliant with legal and contractual obligations.
  • Risk & Issue Management: Proactively identify, log, and manage risks, issues, and changes, escalating as necessary to maintain momentum and resolve blockers.
  • Commercial Oversight: Support the drafting, negotiation, and management of TSA terms and any associated service-level agreements (SLAs).
  • Reporting: Provide clear and timely updates to programme sponsors, senior leadership, and governance boards, ensuring visibility of progress, costs, and risks.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (Master’s preferred).
  • 10+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, with a strong background in M&A integration and separation.
  • Proven experience in defence, or other heavily regulated sector.
  • Working knowledge of information security with CMMC, NIST, DFARS, and ITAR an advantage.
  • Demonstrated success leading complex, multi-system integrations.
  • Strong project management skills with PMP or similar certification preferred.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Eligible for BPSS and SC clearance a requirement.

Why Join? Be a key architect in shaping the future of a growing, mission-driven enterprise. Work in a dynamic, high-impact environment blending innovation and national security.

IT Programme Manager employer: JP Search

Join a forward-thinking aerospace and defence company that prioritises employee growth and innovation, offering a competitive salary of £125-145,000 along with excellent benefits. Our hybrid work culture in Cambridge fosters collaboration and flexibility, while our commitment to compliance and operational excellence ensures you play a vital role in impactful projects that shape national security. With opportunities for professional development and a supportive environment, this is an ideal place for seasoned IT Programme Managers looking to make a meaningful difference.
J

Contact Detail:

JP Search Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land IT Programme Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific compliance standards mentioned in the job description, such as CMMC, NIST, and ITAR. Understanding these regulations will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and the industry.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the aerospace and defence sectors, especially those who have experience with Transition Service Agreements. Engaging in conversations can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your previous experiences with M&A integration and separation in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed complex transitions, as this will be crucial in showcasing your fit for the position.

✨Tip Number 4

Research the company’s recent projects and initiatives in the defence sector. Being knowledgeable about their work will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.

We think you need these skills to ace IT Programme Manager

IT Programme Management
Transition Service Agreements (TSA)
M&A Integration and Separation
Stakeholder Management
Risk Management
Governance and Compliance
Data Security Regulations (CMMC, NIST, ITAR)
Project Management (PMP or similar certification)
Service-Level Agreement (SLA) Management
Communication Skills
Negotiation Skills
Operational Continuity Planning
Resource Allocation
Problem-Solving Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in IT programme management, particularly in Transition Service Agreements and M&A integration. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage complex projects in the defence or technology sectors.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying and how your skills align with the job requirements. Mention your experience with compliance standards like CMMC and NIST, as well as your stakeholder management abilities.

Highlight Key Achievements: In your application, focus on key achievements from your previous roles that showcase your leadership in IT transitions and your ability to maintain service continuity during complex changes. Quantify your successes where possible.

Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your documents to eliminate any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for an IT Programme Manager.

How to prepare for a job interview at JP Search

✨Understand the Role Thoroughly

Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the IT Programme Manager role, especially in relation to Transition Service Agreements. Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements mentioned in the job description, such as M&A integration and compliance with CMMC, NIST, and ITAR.

✨Prepare for Stakeholder Management Questions

Given the importance of stakeholder management in this role, be ready to discuss your experience in managing relationships with various stakeholders. Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to maintain trust and alignment during transitions, as this will be crucial for the interviewer.

✨Showcase Your Risk Management Skills

The role requires proactive risk and issue management. Be prepared to share specific instances where you've identified and mitigated risks in previous projects. Highlight your problem-solving skills and how you maintained momentum despite challenges.

✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills

Excellent communication is key for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You may be asked to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, so be ready to showcase your ability to adapt your communication style accordingly.

IT Programme Manager
JP Search
J
  • IT Programme Manager

    Cambridge
    Full-Time
    104000 - 124000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-05-01

  • J

    JP Search

Similar positions in other companies
UK’s top job board for Gen Z
discover-jobs-cta
Discover now
>