At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead PMO and Project Controls services for major defence programmes, ensuring successful delivery.
- Company: Mace, a leading construction consultancy redefining ambition in the industry.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, medical cover, life insurance, generous leave, and family-friendly policies.
- Other info: Inclusive employer open to diverse candidates; flexible working options available.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team making a real impact in defence while driving innovation and excellence.
- Qualifications: Significant leadership experience in PMO and Project Controls, with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition.
Our values shape the way we consult and define the people we want to join us on our journey.
We are looking to appoint an Operations Director - Project Controls to join our Defence team in Cumbria, supporting a major long-term programme operating within air system and Defence environments.
In this role, you will provide leadership and oversight of PMO and Project Controls services across complex programmes, ensuring the successful delivery of industry leading controls, governance, risk and performance management solutions.
You will act as the subject matter expert for Project Controls, driving best practice, supporting high performing teams and partnering with clients to deliver successful outcomes in a secure and highly regulated environment.
The role is due to commence in late autumn to early winter and sits within an integrated client team operating in a secure and highly regulated environment.
This candidate should have eligibility to obtain and maintain UK security clearance (SC).
You’ll be responsible for: Managing the delivery and performance of PMO and Project Controls services across major programmes and projects.
Ensuring Project Controls, PMO and Risk Management services are aligned with industry best practice and relevant international standards.
Acting as the senior Project Controls subject matter expert, providing technical leadership and support to project teams and stakeholders.
Developing and implementing robust Project Controls strategies, frameworks and integrated controls methodologies.
Providing governance, assurance and oversight across planning, risk, reporting, performance management and controls functions.
Building trusted client relationships, providing expert advice and exceeding client expectations.
Managing, mentoring and developing Project Controls teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
Supporting business growth through bid activities, client engagement and promotion of Project Controls best practice.
Driving the adoption of digital solutions, data analytics and innovative reporting capabilities across programmes.
Supporting the delivery of net zero carbon objectives through proactive identification and management of associated impacts.
You’ll need to have: Significant leadership experience delivering PMO and Project Controls services on major infrastructure, construction, defence or complex transformation programmes.
Strong experience developing and implementing Project Controls strategies, governance frameworks and integrated controls methodologies.
Expert knowledge of Project Controls tools and software such as Primavera P6, Risk Hive, Primavera Risk Analysis, Power BI and other reporting platforms.
Strong commercial awareness with experience building client relationships and supporting business development activities.
Excellent communication, stakeholder management and leadership skills with the ability to influence at senior levels.
A relevant degree and Chartered status (or working towards) through a recognised professional institution such as APM or equivalent.
What’s on offer: Car allowance.
Hybrid working.
Medical health cover.
Life insurance.
Income protection insurance.
Pension scheme.
Discretionary annual salary reviews.
Family friendly policies.22 days annual leave + 2 Mace days + 3 days Christmas shutdown + 1 additional day leave for every 2 years of service + Bank holidays.
Our values Safety first - Going home safe and well: We champion a safe, diverse and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of wellbeing in every team.
Client focus - Deliver on our promise: We own the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes and build long term relationships with our clients.
Integrity - Always do the right thing: We influence positive outcomes within our industry, while always aligning with our compliance obligations.
Create opportunity - For our people to excel: Wechampion a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities, inspiring our people and teams to develop.
Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates.
Even if you feel you do not fulfil all the criteria, please apply as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation.
We are also open to discussing part time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable with-in the role.#LI-Onsite Job Summary Job number: 45930Date posted : 2026-07-16Profession: Project & Programme Management Employment type: Full-time
Operations Director - Project Controls in Carlisle employer: Mace group
Mace is an exceptional employer that prioritises safety, integrity, and client focus, creating a supportive and inclusive work environment for its employees. As a Programme Integration Lead in Cumbria, you will benefit from hybrid working options, comprehensive health coverage, and generous leave policies, all while contributing to a high-profile Defence programme of national importance. With a strong emphasis on professional growth and continuous improvement, Mace empowers its team members to excel and make a meaningful impact in their roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director - Project Controls in Carlisle
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Operations Director - Project Controls at Mace group!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Mace group or be willing to refer you for that Operations Director - Project Controls position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Mace group who’s on the lookout for their next Operations Director - Project Controls star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Operations Director - Project Controls role at Mace group!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director - Project Controls in Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Mace group. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mace group
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Mace group. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
