At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global engineering projects that protect the UK and enhance security.
- Company: FCDO Services, dedicated to safeguarding UK interests worldwide.
- Benefits: 25-30 days holiday, competitive salary, Civil Service Pension, and on-site amenities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusion and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while leading innovative projects in challenging environments.
- Qualifications: Extensive operational management experience and a degree in engineering or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
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. In our world, it all matters.
- Protecting overseas technical solutions.
- Strengthening value for our customers.
- Transforming partnerships through delivery.
- Leading change for UK security.
Shape a customer-focused approach to global delivery. 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.
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.
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.
Join us and you’ll do purpose-led work, every day. You’ll face challenges and feel proud when you resolve them. Lead global design and build projects, inspire a high‑performing team, and leave a lasting legacy in keeping the UK safe overseas.
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.
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.
Every single 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.
The vital work we do takes an incredible community of colleagues, with different skills, backgrounds, cultures and identities. We support every individual, so that you always know you’re welcome and valued. It’s what makes us a Disability Confident employer. And why we’re recognised as a ‘Carer Confident’ workplace. And it’s how you know you’re joining an inspiring, inclusive organisation.
Director Engineering & Operations in Milton Keynes employer: FCDO Services
At FCDO Services, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee growth and well-being. With a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and access to training opportunities, our team members thrive in an environment that values their contributions while working towards a vital global mission. Located in Hanslope Park, our facilities include an on-site gym, nursery, and café, ensuring a supportive atmosphere for all employees.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director Engineering & Operations in Milton Keynes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your skills can contribute to their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with the role. Keep it concise but impactful, focusing on your leadership and engineering expertise that can drive innovation and safety.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our amazing benefits right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Director Engineering & Operations in Milton Keynes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in engineering and operations. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Director, strong leadership is key! Use your application to demonstrate how you've successfully led teams and projects in the past. We love seeing examples of how you’ve inspired others and driven results.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant, and make sure your passion for the role shines through!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, you’ll find more info about the role and our amazing benefits there!
How to prepare for a job interview at FCDO Services
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into your past projects, especially those that align with the role. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the impact of your decisions. This will show your hands-on experience and strategic thinking.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Director of Engineering & Operations, showcasing your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've empowered teams, driven innovation, and managed large budgets. Highlight your ability to inspire and influence others, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Familiarise yourself with FCDO Services' mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your vision aligns with their goals, particularly in terms of security and global impact. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their purpose-led work.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about the organisation's current projects, challenges they face, and their approach to innovation. This demonstrates your interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
