At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering and operations to secure UK interests globally through innovative projects.
- Company: FCDO Services, dedicated to protecting the UK at home and abroad.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, Civil Service Pension, and on-site facilities.
- Other info: Join a supportive, inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by leading critical infrastructure projects in challenging environments.
- Qualifications: Extensive senior operational management experience and a degree in engineering or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 86000 - 117800 £ per year.
Salary: £86,000 - £117,800 plus a location allowance of £1,750 and excellent benefits.
Location: Based in Hanslope Park, Milton Keynes. Free shuttle bus available between central Milton Keynes and Hanslope Park.
Closing date: Apply before 11:55 pm on Sunday 14th June 2026.
At FCDO Services, we protect the UK’s interests at home and overseas. We design and construct secure government buildings, courier diplomatic packages worldwide, safeguard government technology, and a whole lot more. Our work is as varied and vital as it gets, but we never lose sight of our people. Their skills, aspirations and growth mean as much as the global mission we're on.
Shape a customer‑focused approach to global delivery
An incredible role, with global impact. This is your opportunity to lead the design of technical security and engineering solutions, reinforce embassies against seismic activity and hostile threats, deliver critical infrastructure upgrades in active crisis zones, and manage multimillion‑pound secure construction programmes across challenging locations.
Commit to work that matters.
You will lead a broad portfolio that covers engineering, construction, architecture, design, security systems and project management. Previously, we’ve replaced radar domes on the Falklands, a visible deterrent, crucial for security. And we’re working on a rebuild of an embassy in a new location in Tokyo. These are the types of projects that you’ll see realised. You’ll be working for a singular, vital purpose, which is to keep the UK safe.
As adversaries advance, we need to do our utmost to keep up with new developments and secure our systems. Through a close partnership with the Director of Customer Relationships, you’ll ensure that projects and programmes achieve agreed outcomes, timescales, and budgets. You’ll improve customer relationships and increase the value that we add to both the FCDO and other customers across government. Plus, you’ll uphold the organisation’s technical and professional integrity by maintaining robust engineering and sustainability standards that meet current and future customer requirements.
You will be accountable for an operational and delivery budget of approximately £50m and for leading a team of around 300 people. As a leader, you will ensure ministerial targets are met, drive innovation and continuous improvement, and promote a strong health and safety culture to keep our people working safely around the world.
Bring strong leadership and engineering expertise
To be suited to the role, you’re a driven individual, excited to bring strong leadership to engineering and operations. You’re proactive, motivated by purpose, and have an eye for even the smallest details. You’ll bring extensive senior operational management experience with a track record of leading a business and multidisciplinary teams at a strategic level, including large budget responsibility. You’ll have a degree in engineering, construction management, architecture – or significant demonstrable experience in one or more of these fields. Project experience is critical.
You’ve led large-scale project and programme delivery in the UK and overseas, understanding and adapting to different requirements. Plus, you’ve ensured performance meets or exceeds customer, business and personal goal metrics in a global, complex project delivery environment. You have a proven ability to convert business opportunities into secure and sustainable projects and services. Your pragmatic approach is paired with exceptional commercial acumen and financial management skills. As a leader, you’ll have strong interpersonal and communication skills. You know just how to empower, develop, and influence your team. And at a senior level, you can have a personal, credible impact.
Discover the support you need to grow your career further
A healthy work‑life balance starts with giving you the time you need. You’ll enjoy a holiday allowance of 25 days, rising to 30 days based on your length of service, a competitive salary, and a Civil Service Pension. Along with this, you’ll also have access to training and other development opportunities to help grow your career with us. Our offices have an on‑site gym, nursery, café, and restaurant, and we offer interest‑free loans on season tickets and bikes to help you get there. It’s a great set of benefits made to support all you do, and all you need.
Every colleague must be security cleared before joining us. If you’re successful in your application, we’ll ask you to undergo our vetting process to achieve Developed Vetting (DV) clearance. We are a Disability Confident employer and a Carer Confident workplace, and it’s how you know you’re joining an inspiring, inclusive organisation.
Director of Engineering And Operations in Hanslope employer: FCDO Services
At FCDO Services, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Hanslope Park, Milton Keynes, where your contributions directly impact global security. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive training opportunities, a competitive salary, and generous benefits including a Civil Service Pension, 25-30 days of holiday, and access to on-site facilities like a gym and nursery. Join us to be part of a mission-driven team that values innovation, safety, and inclusivity, ensuring that every member feels empowered and supported in their career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Engineering And Operations in Hanslope
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those who work at FCDO Services. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company’s recent projects and challenges. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about the mission of keeping the UK safe.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about your past experiences leading teams and managing budgets. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your skills and achievements.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at FCDO Services.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Engineering And Operations in Hanslope
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Director of Engineering and Operations role. Highlight your leadership experience, project management skills, and any relevant engineering qualifications to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Project Experience:We want to see your hands-on experience! Include details about large-scale projects you've led, especially those in challenging environments. This will demonstrate your ability to manage complex operations and deliver results.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at FCDO Services
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of engineering and operations, especially in relation to security systems and project management. Brush up on recent projects similar to those at FCDO Services, like embassy upgrades or crisis zone infrastructure.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, particularly in managing large teams and budgets. Be ready to discuss how you've driven innovation and improved safety culture in previous roles.
✨Understand the Mission
Familiarise yourself with FCDO Services' mission and values. Be prepared to articulate how your skills and experiences align with their goal of keeping the UK safe, and how you can contribute to their global impact.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the organisation. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values, especially regarding teamwork and professional development.
