At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major infrastructure projects that enhance the UK's security and operational capability.
- Company: Defence Infrastructure Organisation, part of the Ministry of Defence.
- Benefits: Salary up to £115,000 plus a generous Civil Service pension.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to excellence and professional development.
- Why this job: Shape critical infrastructure and make a lasting impact on national security.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in large-scale infrastructure and leadership in regulated environments.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), Ministry of Defence
Salary: Up to £115,000 plus Civil Service pension (28.97%)
Closing date: 23:55 17th August 2026
Few leadership roles offer the opportunity to shape infrastructure at a scale that directly underpins the security of the United Kingdom. This is one of them. The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) is responsible for one of the largest and most diverse property portfolios in the country, managing billions of pounds of assets and investment on behalf of Defence.
At the heart of this agenda is HM Naval Base Clyde, home to the UK's Continuous At Sea Deterrent and a critical component of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise. As Defence continues to invest in the future of the Clyde estate, we are seeking an exceptional Programme Director to lead one of the most significant infrastructure portfolios in the UK.
Reporting to the Director of Major Programmes and Projects and working alongside senior leaders across Defence, government and industry, you will provide strategic leadership for a complex, high-profile portfolio of nuclear infrastructure programmes. With current annual investment of approximately £350m, rising significantly in future years, you will oversee the delivery of major capital projects that are essential to operational capability, long-term resilience and the transformation of HMNB Clyde.
This is a role that extends far beyond programme delivery. You will lead multidisciplinary teams spanning programme management, engineering, commercial, finance and project controls, creating a culture of excellence, accountability and continuous improvement. You will navigate complex stakeholder environments, balancing operational, regulatory, political and commercial considerations while providing the strategic leadership required to deliver safely, effectively and at pace.
We are looking for a proven senior leader with a track record of delivering large-scale infrastructure, construction or capital programmes within highly regulated, safety-critical environments. You will bring experience of leading complex portfolios, managing significant budgets and driving performance through large supply chains and delivery partners. Equally important is your ability to inspire confidence and bring people together behind a common purpose.
You will be a collaborative and authentic leader, capable of influencing at the highest levels, building trusted relationships across organisational boundaries and creating high-performing teams that thrive in complex environments. Your leadership will combine strategic vision with disciplined execution, ensuring delivery against demanding objectives while maintaining the highest standards of safety, governance and professionalism.
This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in one of the UK's most significant infrastructure and transformation programmes. In return, you will join an organisation committed to developing its people, embracing inclusion and delivering outcomes that matter to the nation. For leaders motivated by purpose, scale and the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy, this role offers an exceptional platform from which to make a difference.
DIO Infrastructure Programme Director (Clyde) in Glasgow employer: GatenbySanderson
GatenbySanderson is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and inclusivity within the digital services sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, we offer robust growth opportunities and a collaborative work culture that values diverse perspectives. Located at the heart of national strategy initiatives, our team enjoys the unique advantage of influencing impactful public services while working in a supportive environment that prioritises user-centric solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land DIO Infrastructure Programme Director (Clyde) in Glasgow
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
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✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like DIO Infrastructure Programme Director (Clyde) at GatenbySanderson.
We think you need these skills to ace DIO Infrastructure Programme Director (Clyde) in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at GatenbySanderson
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
