At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in the Defence Growth Sector and manage key stakeholder relationships.
- Company: Join UK Research and Innovation, a leader in research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days of annual leave, flexible working, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security through innovative project management.
- Qualifications: A' levels or equivalent experience in project management required.
The predicted salary is between 46743 - 46743 € per year.
This is the Internal Only Recruitment Site for UK Research and Innovation Staff for roles within Innovate UK (UKRI). Please apply for jobs via this site only if you are employed by UK Research and Innovation. If you wish to apply for the position below, please ensure that you comply with the requirements of the recruitment process by submitting both a full CV and application letter. Ideally, you should also advise your manager of your application.
Applications must be submitted by 03-06-2026. The Project Manager will work with all members of the Defence Growth Sector and will contribute to the effective delivery of the Defence Growth Sector Innovation Programme. This advert will close on the 2nd of June 2026 at 23.59pm.
Innovate UK recognises the importance of work-life balance and we will be happy to discuss any requests for flexible working arrangements.
The Project Manager will operate within the Defence Growth Sector. The vision of the Defence Growth Sector is to drive business growth through delivery of a portfolio of programmes that focus on innovation that supports UK National Security Innovation. This portfolio is responsible for the delivery of the Defence Growth Sector Programme. Innovate UK will work with Defence and National Security organisations. We particularly welcome female applicants as women are under-represented within Innovate UK in this type of role.
Job Purpose: The Project Manager will work with all members of the Defence Growth Sector and will contribute to the effective delivery of the Defence Growth Sector Innovation Programme. They may also support other Programmes as needed. Reporting to the Programme Manager, the post holder will apply structured management to the Defence Growth Sector Programme and effectively manage relationships with Defence and National Security Government and industry stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:
- Provide project management support for the Defence and National Security Programme activities, working with relevant delivery teams.
- Support the Programme Manager in the day-to-day delivery of Programme/Domain/IUK/UKRI Governance functions.
- Track and record timelines, finance, risks and impact metrics.
- Support the embedding of monitoring, evaluation, and impact management across projects.
- Take part in project/programme management meetings and keep track of actions, decisions and communicate those to team members.
- Ensure effective change management processes are in place.
- Support knowledge sharing and best practice across the PSO function and wider Defence and National Security.
This is not an exhaustive list and you might be encouraged to undertake any other duties across the wider directorate, commensurate with the Band and level of responsibility of this post.
Person Specification: This focused and highly effective individual will ideally be a project manager or equivalent with a proven track-record, used to working without close direction and able to manage multiple streams of work. They will be highly flexible, capable of identifying the right approach to the challenge in hand and translating that approach into effective delivery.
Experience & Qualifications:
- A’ levels or relevant equivalent qualification or previous relevant experience.
- Knowledge of the full project lifecycle with a proven track-record.
- Experience of providing project management support for large public sector projects.
- Experience of working in a complex multi-organisation environment with varying cultures.
- Experience of delivering/supporting projects within a programme structure.
- Experience of monitoring risks and managing risk escalation processes.
- Experience of creating governance papers and minutes.
- Experience of creating management reports for a range of internal and external stakeholders.
- Experience of achieving results through influencing skills rather than direct control.
- Experience of successfully managing multiple stakeholders with conflicting demands and priorities.
- Experience delivering/supporting business critical projects with high visibility.
- Experience of managing/supporting change within projects and programmes.
Competencies: All team members demonstrate compatibility with and capability against our Core Competencies such as: Thinking and Problem Solving, Stakeholder management, Communication skills, Influencing, Self-awareness/self-management, Strategic awareness, Working with others, Project management.
Travel Requirements: Field-based: There will be a requirement to travel, mostly national, and there is some flexibility in this.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Innovate UK is a diverse workforce of people. We believe that encouraging these differences and drawing the best from them will build a productive environment in which everyone feels valued.
Employee Benefits: We offer a benefits package crafted to provide an excellent work/life balance. This includes 30 days’ annual leave, 10.5 public and privilege days, flexible working hours, an exceptional defined benefit pension scheme, and access to a variety of support networks and discount schemes.
Pre-employment Screening: To enable us to hire the very best people we will conduct a comprehensive pre-employment check on successful applicants as part of the recruitment process.
Applications must be submitted by 03-06-2026.
Project Manager - Defence Growth Sector employer: Innovate UK
Innovate UK is an exceptional employer that prioritises work-life balance and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including 30 days of annual leave and flexible working arrangements. With a strong commitment to employee growth and development, staff are encouraged to engage in knowledge sharing and best practices within a diverse and inclusive environment, making it an ideal place for those looking to contribute meaningfully to the Defence Growth Sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager - Defence Growth Sector
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections within UKRI or the Defence Growth Sector. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in defence innovation. Show us you’re not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely passionate about the sector and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your STAR technique for answering competency questions. We want to hear about your past experiences and how they relate to the role, so be ready to share specific examples!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows us you’re really interested in the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager - Defence Growth Sector
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Project Manager role in the Defence Growth Sector. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially those related to project management and stakeholder engagement.
Craft a Compelling Application Letter:Your application letter should tell your story! Explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a great fit. Use specific examples to demonstrate your project management experience and your understanding of the Defence Growth Sector.
Follow the Application Process:Remember to submit both your CV and application letter as required. Make sure you apply through our website to ensure your application is processed correctly. Don’t forget to inform your manager about your application!
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check all your details. Ensure there are no typos or errors in your CV and application letter. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is crucial for a Project Manager!
How to prepare for a job interview at Innovate UK
✨Know Your Project Management Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the full project lifecycle and can discuss your experience with various project management approaches. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed risks, costs, and stakeholder expectations in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience managing multiple stakeholders with conflicting demands. Think of a few scenarios where you successfully influenced outcomes without direct control, as this will demonstrate your ability to navigate complex environments.
✨Be Ready for Governance Discussions
Since the role involves creating governance papers and minutes, brush up on your knowledge of governance structures. Have examples ready of how you've contributed to governance meetings or created management reports that were well-received by internal and external stakeholders.
✨Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability
The Defence Growth Sector is dynamic, so highlight your flexibility in adapting to changing circumstances. Share instances where you’ve had to pivot your approach mid-project and how you ensured successful delivery despite challenges.
