At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and optimise complex programme schedules in a dynamic defence environment.
- Company: Join a leading Defence Programme Management Office with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a chance to work on high-profile projects.
- Other info: Collaborate with diverse stakeholders and enhance your skills in a regulated environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security by shaping critical defence programmes.
- Qualifications: Experience in schedule management within large defence or engineering programmes is essential.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
This role works directly in support of the Lead Schedule Manager within the Programme Operations function of a major Defence Programme Management Office (PMO). The Schedule Management team supports the Programme Operations Manager in developing, maintaining and controlling programme schedules, ensuring alignment with programme objectives, key milestones and contractual commitments. The team monitors schedule performance, identifies risks and opportunities, and facilitates informed decision-making across a complex multi-stakeholder environment.
Programme Operations encompasses activities related to programme planning, performance measurement and operational governance. This ensures programme performance can be effectively monitored, risks and opportunities are identified and managed, and operational challenges are minimised throughout the programme lifecycle.
The Schedule Manager will be responsible for:
- Developing, maintaining and updating programme schedules, including integrated master schedules and associated planning artefacts.
- Identifying and highlighting scheduling criticalities, including conflicts, delays and resource constraints.
- Delivering schedule updates and reporting to internal and external stakeholders.
- Identifying and managing Assumptions, Dependencies and Exclusions (ADEs).
- Identifying potential programme risks and opportunities related to schedule performance.
- Managing and monitoring dependencies across workstreams to minimise programme delays.
- Reviewing and validating programme assumptions on a regular basis.
- Supporting schedule analysis and performance reporting activities.
- Ensuring schedule data integrity and alignment with programme governance requirements.
The role does not carry direct Profit and Loss responsibility but operates within a complex defence programme environment, supporting the review, reporting and management of activities across multiple stakeholders and delivery partners in accordance with established programme management frameworks and governance processes.
This position has been created to support the delivery of a major defence programme and offers the opportunity to contribute to a high-profile, strategically important initiative. The successful candidate will work within an established Programme Controls function, helping to shape and deliver best-practice scheduling and programme control processes while collaborating with a diverse range of stakeholders.
Required Experience, Qualifications and Skills
- Proven experience in schedule management and planning within large, complex defence, aerospace, engineering or government programmes.
- Strong expertise in developing, maintaining and controlling project schedules using recognised methodologies such as Critical Path Method (CPM).
- Experience working with Integrated Master Schedules (IMS) and programme planning tools.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to coordinate activities across multidisciplinary teams.
- Demonstrated ability to monitor, analyse and report on schedule performance, identifying risks and recommending mitigation strategies.
- Strong understanding of programme dependencies and their impact on delivery timelines.
- Experience balancing resources, priorities and deadlines to support successful programme delivery.
- Advanced problem-solving, analytical and risk management capabilities.
- Ability to operate effectively within highly regulated and governance-driven environments.
Security Clearance
This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government's Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Applicants must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK Security Check (SC) clearance. Additional National Security Vetting (NSV) requirements may apply depending on programme and customer requirements.
Analysis Manager (Permanent) in Reading employer: LHH
As an Analysis Manager within our Defence Programme Management Office, you will join a dynamic and supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. We offer competitive benefits, including opportunities for professional advancement in a high-profile programme environment, where your contributions will directly impact national security initiatives. Our collaborative atmosphere encourages innovation and teamwork, making us an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the defence sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Analysis Manager (Permanent) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the defence sector, especially those who work in programme management. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your schedule management skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with Integrated Master Schedules and how you've tackled scheduling conflicts in the past. Use real examples to showcase your problem-solving abilities!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills! In a role that involves multiple stakeholders, being able to convey complex information clearly is key. Practice explaining your previous projects and how you managed dependencies and risks in a way that’s easy to understand.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always looking for talented individuals who can contribute to our high-profile projects. Make sure your application highlights your relevant experience and aligns with the job description to stand out from the crowd.
We think you need these skills to ace Analysis Manager (Permanent) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Analysis Manager role. Highlight your experience in schedule management and planning, especially within complex defence programmes. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Showcase Your Skills:In your cover letter, showcase your expertise in developing and maintaining project schedules. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage risks and dependencies effectively. This is your chance to shine!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. Avoid jargon and make sure your points are easy to understand. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially in a complex environment like ours.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at LHH
✨Know Your Schedules Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in schedule management methodologies, especially the Critical Path Method (CPM). Be ready to discuss your experience with Integrated Master Schedules (IMS) and how you've used them in past projects. This will show that you understand the technical aspects of the role.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Scenarios
Since this role involves coordinating with various stakeholders, think of examples where you successfully managed stakeholder expectations or resolved conflicts. Practise articulating these experiences clearly, as strong communication skills are key to impressing the interviewers.
✨Highlight Your Risk Management Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you've identified and mitigated risks in previous projects. Bring specific examples that demonstrate your analytical abilities and problem-solving skills, particularly in complex environments like defence or aerospace.
✨Show Your Passion for Programme Delivery
Express your enthusiasm for contributing to high-profile initiatives. Research the company’s current projects and be ready to discuss how your skills can help shape best-practice scheduling and programme control processes. This will show that you’re not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in making an impact.
