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- Tasks: Lead and shape a high-performing PMO function for a major defence programme.
- Company: Join Mastek, a purpose-driven organisation making a real difference in public services.
- Benefits: Collaborative environment, professional growth, and the chance to impact communities.
- Other info: Diversity valued; all qualified candidates encouraged to apply.
- Why this job: Engage with senior decision-makers and lead critical PMO functions end-to-end.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in PMO leadership within Defence or complex government programmes.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are hiring for PMO Lead for one of our public sector clients. We are seeking a Senior PMO Lead to establish, lead, and mature the PMO function across a major defence programme. This is a hybrid leadership and hands-on role, where you will shape governance, drive integrated controls, and provide the insight needed for risk-informed decision-making at senior levels. You’ll work closely with Programme Leadership, SROs, and senior stakeholders across Defence, playing a critical role in ensuring successful programme delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- PMO Leadership & Delivery
- Establish and lead a high-performing PMO function across the full P3M lifecycle
- Set standards, frameworks, and governance aligned to MOD / HMG best practices
- Balance strategic leadership with hands-on delivery
- Integrated Programme Controls (P3M)
- Oversee and align all core PMO disciplines, including:
- Integrated planning & scheduling (IMS, critical path)
- Risk & opportunity management (aligned to Orange Book)
- Schedule Risk Analysis (SRA) and quantitative insights
- Cost control, forecasting, and financial tracking
- Dependency management across defence and suppliers
- Benefits realisation aligned to capability outcomes
- Stakeholder communications and programme reporting
- Governance & Reporting
- Lead high-quality reporting for Programme Boards and senior stakeholders
- Own board packs with clear, concise, insight-driven content
- Provide regular updates to SLT on performance, risks, and priorities
- Support Service Owner Reviews and assurance activities
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Partner with SROs, Programme Directors, and Defence stakeholders
- Facilitate governance forums and decision-making sessions
- Act as a trusted advisor, providing data-driven recommendations
- Decision Support & Insight
- Translate complex data into clear, actionable insights
- Enable risk-informed decisions by highlighting trade-offs and impacts
- Surface emerging risks early with mitigation options
- Continuous Improvement
- Enhance PMO processes, governance, and reporting standards
- Capture lessons learned and drive delivery improvements
What We’re Looking For
Essential:
- Proven experience as a PMO Lead / Senior PMO Manager in Defence or complex government programmes
- Experience managing full P3M scope on large-scale programmes (ideally HMG Category A)
- Strong expertise across:
- Planning & scheduling
- Risk & opportunity management
- Schedule Risk Analysis (SRA)
- Cost & financial control
- Dependency management
- Benefits realisation
- Experience producing senior-level reporting and board packs
- Strong stakeholder engagement with SROs, SLT, and Boards
- Experience leading and mentoring PMO teams
- Ability to operate strategically and hands-on
Desirable:
- Experience within Defence Digital / similar environments
- Knowledge of HM Treasury Green Book & Orange Book
- Familiarity with IPA / GMPP assurance processes
- Experience supporting Service Owner Reviews
- P3M qualifications (MSP, PRINCE2, APM)
Why Apply?
- Work on a high-impact defence programme
- Engage with senior decision-makers across government
- Shape and lead a critical PMO function end-to-end
Why Join Mastek: Make a Difference That Matters
Mastek is a purpose‑driven organisation where the work you do makes a real difference, particularly across the public and health sectors. You’ll have the opportunity to work on complex, meaningful programmes that impact communities and improve public services.
We offer a collaborative and supportive working environment that encourages innovation, learning, and professional growth. At Mastek, people are trusted to contribute ideas, challenge thinking, and work together to deliver the best outcomes.
We value diversity and believe that different experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives lead to better solutions. Even if you don’t meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply — your skills and experiences may be exactly what we are looking for.
Mastek is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. If you require any reasonable adjustments or additional support during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Program Management Office Lead in Reading employer: Mastek
Contact Detail:
Mastek Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Program Management Office Lead in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence sector and let them know you're on the lookout for PMO roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info or even a referral, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of P3M methodologies and governance frameworks. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led PMO functions in the past, and don’t forget to highlight your hands-on experience!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your stakeholder engagement skills! During interviews, share examples of how you've effectively communicated with senior leaders and facilitated decision-making sessions. This will demonstrate your ability to act as a trusted advisor.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on opportunities that align with your expertise in defence programmes. Check out our website for tailored job listings that match your skills and experience. We want to help you land that dream role!
We think you need these skills to ace Program Management Office Lead in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in PMO leadership, especially in defence or complex government programmes. We want to see how your skills align with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead a PMO function. Use metrics and examples to illustrate how you've driven successful programme delivery and stakeholder engagement.
Be Clear and Concise: In your written application, clarity is key! Ensure your language is straightforward and your points are easy to follow. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the point without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mastek
✨Know Your PMO Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in PMO principles and practices, especially those relevant to defence programmes. Brush up on your knowledge of governance frameworks and risk management strategies, as these will likely be key discussion points.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading PMO functions and teams. Be ready to discuss how you've balanced strategic leadership with hands-on delivery, and how you’ve successfully engaged with senior stakeholders in previous roles.
✨Be Data-Driven
Since the role involves translating complex data into actionable insights, come prepared with examples of how you've used data to inform decision-making. Think about specific instances where your insights led to improved programme outcomes or risk mitigation.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to build relationships with SROs and other senior stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you’ve facilitated governance forums or decision-making sessions, and how you’ve acted as a trusted advisor in past projects.