Project Manager (Defence)
Project Manager (Defence)

Project Manager (Defence)

Reading Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team to deliver critical infrastructure projects on time and within budget.
  • Company: CGI is a top IT systems integrator, recognised as one of the best places to work.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private healthcare, pension, and a share scheme.
  • Why this job: Join a collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and impactful projects.
  • Qualifications: Experience in IT project management and advanced skills in Microsoft Project required.
  • Other info: Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance and work on-site in Reading.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

The Space, Defence and Intelligence business unit in CGI is a true IT Systems Integrator. We work, build, and operate bespoke, technically complex, mission-critical systems which help our clients keep us all safe and secure. We bring innovation to our clients using proven and emerging technologies, agile delivery processes and our deep expertise across the breadth of space, defence, intelligence, aerospace and maritime, all underpinned by our end-to-end cyber capability. We work collaboratively with global technology companies, cutting edge SMEs and academia to deliver the optimal solution for each client.

CGI was recognised in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work List 2024 and has been named one of the ‘World’s Best Employers’ by Forbes magazine. We offer a competitive salary, excellent pension, private healthcare, plus a share scheme (3.5% + 3.5% matching) which makes you a CGI Partner not just an employee. We are committed to inclusivity, building a genuinely diverse community of tech talent and inspiring everyone to pursue careers in our sector, including our Armed Forces, and are proud to hold a Gold Award in recognition of our support of the Armed Forces Corporate Covenant. Join us and you’ll be part of an open, friendly community of experts. We’ll train and support you in taking your career wherever you want it to go.

Due to the secure nature of the programme, you will need to hold UK Security Clearance or be eligible to go through this clearance. This position will be 5 days a week on site in Reading.

Your future duties and responsibilities:

  • Project Leadership: Own the project lifecycle from initiation through to close out, coordinating with technical teams and stakeholders.
  • Team Management: Lead and motivate a multidisciplinary team of circa 15 resources, balancing workloads and optimising performance.
  • Scheduling & Planning: Develop, maintain, and monitor a detailed project schedule in MS Project, adjusting timelines as needed to meet deliverables.
  • Risk & Dependency Management: Identify, assess, and mitigate risks and dependencies; escalate issues proactively.
  • Stakeholder Reporting: Provide weekly status reports and presentations to the Director, ensuring transparency around progress, risks, and next steps.
  • Client Engagement: Represent CGI in client meetings, build strong relationships, and manage expectations throughout the project.

Required Qualifications To Be Successful In This Role:

  • IT Project Management: Proven track record managing complex infrastructure or technical projects.
  • MS Project Expertise: Advanced skills in Microsoft Project for planning, tracking, and reporting.
  • Multi Workstream Coordination: Demonstrated ability to juggle multiple workstreams and resource allocations simultaneously.
  • Technical Acumen: Previous infrastructure experience or strong technical background to effectively liaise with engineers and vendors.
  • On Site Commitment: Willingness and ability to work from CGI’s Reading offices five days a week.

Why CGI?

  • High Profile Project: Lead a critical infrastructure transformation for a leading organisation.
  • Collaborative Environment: Work alongside expert technical teams in a supportive, fast paced setting.
  • Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and progression within CGI’s global network.
  • Competitive Package: Attractive salary and benefits, reflecting the responsibility and impact of the role.

Together, as owners, let’s turn meaningful insights into action. Life at CGI is rooted in ownership, teamwork, respect and belonging. Here, you’ll reach your full potential because you are invited to be an owner from day 1 as we work together to bring our Dream to life. That’s why we call ourselves CGI Partners rather than employees. We benefit from our collective success and actively shape our company’s strategy and direction.

Your work creates value. You’ll develop innovative solutions and build relationships with teammates and clients while accessing global capabilities to scale your ideas, embrace new opportunities, and benefit from expansive industry and technology expertise. You’ll shape your career by joining a company built to grow and last. You’ll be supported by leaders who care about your health and well-being and provide you with opportunities to deepen your skills and broaden your horizons.

Come join our team—one of the largest IT and business consulting services firms in the world.

Project Manager (Defence) employer: CGI

CGI is an exceptional employer, recognised as one of the 'World’s Best Employers' by Forbes and a top place to work in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work List 2024. With a commitment to inclusivity and employee growth, CGI offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits including private healthcare and a share scheme, and fosters a collaborative environment where you can lead high-profile projects while developing your career in a supportive community. Located in Reading, you'll enjoy the opportunity to work on mission-critical systems that contribute to national security, all while being part of a diverse team dedicated to innovation and excellence.
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Contact Detail:

CGI Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Project Manager (Defence)

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with CGI's core values and recent projects in the defence sector. This will help you align your experience with their mission and demonstrate your genuine interest during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former CGI employees on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide insider insights about the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.

✨Tip Number 3

Brush up on your MS Project skills, as this is a key requirement for the role. Consider taking a quick online course or tutorial to ensure you're confident in using it effectively.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've managed complex projects in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, showcasing your leadership and problem-solving skills.

We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager (Defence)

Project Management
Team Leadership
Risk Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Microsoft Project Expertise
Multi Workstream Coordination
Technical Acumen
Budget Management
Time Management
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability
Client Relationship Management
Reporting and Presentation Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in project management, particularly in IT or infrastructure projects. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage complex projects.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the defence sector and your understanding of CGI's mission. Mention how your skills align with the job requirements, especially your expertise in MS Project and team management.

Highlight Security Clearance: If you already hold UK Security Clearance, make sure to mention it prominently in your application. If not, express your willingness to undergo the clearance process, as this is crucial for the role.

Showcase Soft Skills: In addition to technical skills, emphasise your soft skills such as communication, leadership, and stakeholder management. Provide examples of how you've successfully engaged with clients and managed expectations in previous roles.

How to prepare for a job interview at CGI

✨Showcase Your Project Management Experience

Be prepared to discuss your previous project management roles, especially those involving complex infrastructure projects. Highlight specific examples where you successfully led a team, managed budgets, and met deadlines.

✨Demonstrate Technical Acumen

Since the role requires liaising with technical teams, brush up on relevant technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss how your background allows you to understand and communicate effectively with engineers and vendors.

✨Familiarise Yourself with MS Project

As advanced skills in Microsoft Project are essential, ensure you can discuss your experience with this tool. Consider preparing a brief overview of how you've used it for scheduling, tracking, and reporting in past projects.

✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Scenarios

Think about how you would handle client meetings and stakeholder communications. Prepare examples of how you've built relationships and managed expectations in previous roles, as this will be crucial for success in the position.

Project Manager (Defence)
CGI
C
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