At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate programme management services for a high-profile Defence project.
- Company: Mace, a dynamic construction and consultancy firm with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, medical cover, life insurance, and generous leave policies.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for career growth and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team and make a real impact in national Defence projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in programme management and strong stakeholder communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ 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 a Programme Services Lead to join our
- Defence team in
Preston , supporting the delivery of a high-profile and highly regulated Air Defence programme of national importance.
This role requires a highly trusted professional who can operate with discretion, integrity and accountability within a secure environment.
Due to commence in late autumn to early winter, the position sits within an Integrated Client Team and offers responsibility for coordinating and leading programme management services that support effective governance, reporting, planning, risk management and delivery assurance across a long-term Defence programme.
This candidate should have eligibility to obtain and maintain UK security clearance (SC).
You'll be responsible for
- Managing the delivery of programme management services across the programme.
- Managing governance frameworks, reporting cycles and programme assurance activities.
- Coordinating programme planning, scheduling and performance reporting processes.
- Maintaining oversight of programme risks, issues, actions and dependencies.
- Supporting senior stakeholders with programme information, decision-making and governance requirements.
- Ensuring consistency of programme management standards, processes and controls.
- Facilitating collaboration across project teams, suppliers and client stakeholders.
- Driving continuous improvement across programme services, reporting and governance activities.
- Supporting programme mobilisation, transition and readiness activities.
- Building strong relationships across the Integrated Client Team to ensure successful programme outcomes.
You'll need to have
- Experience leading PMO, Programme Services or Programme Management functions within complex programmes.
- Strong understanding of programme governance, reporting, planning and assurance processes.
- Experience supporting large-scale Defence, Aerospace, Infrastructure or similarly regulated programmes.
- Excellent stakeholder management, communication and facilitation skills.
- Experience managing programme risks, issues, actions and performance reporting.
- Degree qualified or equivalent professional experience in programme management, project management or a related discipline.
- Current SC clearance or eligibility and willingness to obtain and maintain UK Security Clearance (SC).
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\
We champion 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
Programme Services Lead - Defence in Preston employer: Mace
Mace Construct Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide ample opportunities for growth and advancement within our Public, Science & Technology Business Unit, ensuring that our team members are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles. Our culture prioritises safety, quality, and continuous improvement, making it a rewarding place for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the hyperscale data centre sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Services Lead - Defence in Preston
✨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 Programme Services Lead - Defence at Mace!
✨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 or be willing to refer you for that Programme Services Lead - Defence position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
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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 Programme Services Lead - Defence role at Mace!
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Services Lead - Defence in Preston
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. 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
✨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!
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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. 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!