Programme Manager in Luton

Your Impact: The role is key to both the continuing successful execution of existing Rotary platform avionic support to two platform primes and the growth of CS3 enhanced support offerings to Leonardo Electronics Product Lines. The role encompasses the management of:

• Strategic growth of support to other Leonardo business units, defined by minimum commitments made within the CS3 integrated business plan.
• Establishing close working links with other Leonardo teams, identifying areas of support that can be enhanced to the mutual benefit of all parties, securing Customer contracts and the successful execution of new work, delivered through the creation and effective operation of Integrated Project Teams.
• Scoping, defining, designing and implementing a new support business stream which will allow the sustainment of EW and ISP products and services whilst working with these LoBs to strengthen their current and future market position and incumbency.

Complex Projects, characterised by the integrated operational support of multiple avionic items onto four rotary platforms, requiring minimum availability levels to be maintained via effective asset management as well as technical support to Customers and End Users by a dedicated team operating from Customers premises through to Main Operating Bases. These projects benefit from established supply chains and industrial systems but may require adaptation for new initiatives or bespoke applications.

Full profit and loss ownership for multiple service offerings within SSS includes the existing Rotary Wing support business. Through product transition planning demonstrate a positive growth trajectory in IBP planning from and beyond.

In addition, the position has a role as part of the SSS Sector Management Team, supporting the Sector by:

• Deputising for the Sector VP as required at LoB level reviews
• Providing counsel to other Sector leads based on own expertise
• Promoting Sector led initiatives within Leonardo as well as with business Partners and strategic Customers
• Acting as a Sector business champion to maximise profitability and growth

What you’ll bring:

• Leadership: Experience in leading large complex programmes, ideally from a defence, engineering or aligned industry
• Financial & Commercial experience: Experience of owning P&L, running a successful and stable business area with visibility of budget management, cost control and bids
• Line Management: Experience in leading and developing PMs both by motivating and driving technical ability/skillset
• Relationship Building: Ability to build strong relationships with both internal and external customers
• IPT Lead: Reporting up to VP level, experience in forming part of the senior team and delivering business strategy

Security Clearance: This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).

Why join us: At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you’re looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.

• Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
• Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
• Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
• Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
• Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
• Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options.

For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website. Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety. At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know. Be part of something bigger - apply now.