Strategic Project Manager in Portsmouth

The Strategic Projects Manager is responsible for delivering strategic projects from start to finish, including feasibility studies, surveys, user requirement documents, and RIBA Stage 0–2 design work. These projects help inform the strategies and asset management plans shaping Portsmouth Naval Base now and in the future.

The role includes:

• Developing tender briefs in close collaboration with the client, managing the full tender process, appointing the successful supplier, and overseeing the contract through to completion—whether the output is a survey, feasibility study, or RIBA Stage 2 design.
• Reviewing and preparing project requirements forms with the client for a range of upcoming projects. These documents support project planning by determining priorities and scheduling.
• Prioritising project and programmes according to urgency and available resources, as with any client, funding is limited.

What you will bring:

• Strong technical knowledge across a range of engineering systems, including building systems such as HVAC, Refrigerant system, Chilled Water systems, gas, steam, fresh water, sewage, Sanitary Plumbing, Rainwater disposal and Catchment, CHP plants and low‑temperature hot water, domestic water systems; and workshop systems such as LEV, workshop machinery, lifting equipment, and high‑ and low‑pressure air systems.
• A solid understanding of the full engineering lifecycle, from initial concept through to in‑service support.
• Confident communication in excellent written and spoken English and have a thorough working knowledge of building regulations, British Standards for mechanical systems, and key regulatory frameworks including PUWER, LOLER, PSSR, F‑gas, Legionella and DSEAR.
• Understanding of the engineering, procurement and construction aspects required to deliver major projects successfully.
• A good understanding of all other disciplines within the construction field, and have a good working knowledge of these elements including such areas as fire strategies, and the need for compliance, construction methods, types of buildings and their respective services, methods of structural support and the ramifications of different structural methods on services, electrical services etc.
• Comfortable working directly with clients and can operate independently without close supervision.
• Your approach is logical, organised and detail‑driven, and you apply consistent professional judgement in all aspects of your work.
• Willing to undertake projects outside your comfort zone that may not be within your trained skill set.

About you:

• A strong understanding of building services engineering, along with proven experience in both project and programme management.
• You must be able to translate complex compliance requirements into practical, actionable engineering solutions while maintaining a high standard of technical oversight.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills are essential, as is the drive to continuously improve processes and outcomes.
• You should be confident in managing technical teams, writing clear scopes of work, reviewing tenders, and applying effective cost control throughout the project lifecycle.
• You are flexible in your approach, a team player, conscientious, and able to communicate in a technical and non-technical environment.
• You are flexible in your approach to the types of work that you will undertake and be willing to work in areas that will challenge and may need some background analysis and understanding to allow such elements as the PRF to be written.

You’ll get:

• Holiday purchase scheme, following successful completion of probation period
• Early finish on a Friday
• Discretionary company bonus scheme
• Enhanced pension scheme – employee contribution 4% and company contribution 6%, or the employee can increase their contribution to 6% and company contribution 8%
• Life assurance x 4 (subject to scheme T&C’s)
• Access to our internal benefits and discounts programme for all colleagues
• Cycle to work scheme
• Group income protection
• Flexible parental benefits (if applicable)
• Free parking onsite
• Access to our Internal employee assistance network, giving you the opportunity to reach the heights of success within your new position.
• Kudos reward opportunities (internal achievements scheme)
• 50% off entry into the Historic Dockyard

Application process: Applications are urged to apply prior to the advertising closing date of 31st March 2026.

Background checks & security: Please note that due to the nature of the site we are based on and the work carried out, once offered we carry out a number of pre-employment checks which include UKSV clearance applications – you will need to be eligible for this and willing to go through the process. For more information, please speak with the Talent & Recruitment team.

About us: At KBS Maritime, we are an exciting and dynamic joint venture between industry leaders BAE Systems and KBR. Our team is dedicated to providing Asset Management, Infrastructure Management, Energy Solutions and Alongside Services at His Majesty's Naval Base Portsmouth (HMNBP), the beating heart of the Royal Navy. We operate in a unique and fascinating environment, with a mix of historic dockyards and cutting-edge infrastructure that is unlike any other. By delivering state of the art solutions to the Royal Navy, KBS Maritime offers the chance to work on projects that make a real difference to the safety, security, and sustainability of the UK's National Defence and Security. We believe in the value of our people and are committed to building a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from individuals of every social or cultural background, age, gender, ability, sexual orientation, and belief. We will make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process to accommodate any disability. If you require this job advert in an alternative format, or require any assistance, please contact recruitment@kbsmaritime.com.