At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage multidisciplinary teams on exciting defence projects.
- Company: Dynamic organisation focused on innovative defence solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a supportive team culture that values transparency and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the defence sector while developing your project management skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and strong leadership abilities.
Project Manager - Defence
12-24 Month Fixed-Term Contract or £350-£450/day Inside IR35
Location: UK - hybrid / site-based as required
Security Clearance: SC preferred / eligibility to obtain SC likely required
Match Performance is supporting a major defence organisation with the appointment of experienced Project Managers to support complex delivery programmes across the MOD environment.
We are looking for individuals who can operate effectively within a structured, highly regulated and stakeholder-heavy environment, with responsibility for delivering defined project outcomes across cost, schedule, risk, quality and governance.
This is an opportunity to work on significant defence programmes where delivery discipline, commercial awareness and stakeholder management are as important as technical understanding.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the planning and delivery of projects from initiation through to completion.
- Manage scope, schedule, cost, quality, risks, issues and dependencies.
- Maintain robust project plans, RAID logs and governance documentation.
- Provide clear reporting to senior stakeholders and programme leadership.
- Coordinate internal teams, suppliers, contractors and wider delivery partners.
- Monitor performance against agreed milestones and intervene where delivery is at risk.
- Support commercial, procurement and supplier-management activity where required.
- Ensure compliance with relevant governance, assurance and reporting requirements.
- Manage project change and maintain control of baselines.
- Support benefits realisation and effective transition into operational delivery.
- Build strong relationships across engineering, commercial, finance, operations and programme functions.
- Escalate risks and issues appropriately and maintain clear decision-making records.
Experience required
We are interested in Project Managers with experience in one or more of the following environments:
- Defence / MOD
- Aerospace
- Engineering
- Nuclear
- Infrastructure
- Complex manufacturing
- Technology-enabled programmes
- Highly regulated public‑sector environments
You should be able to demonstrate:
- Strong project-management experience across complex delivery environments.
- Experience managing multiple stakeholders and delivery partners.
- Good understanding of project controls, planning, risk and governance.
- Ability to work within structured assurance and reporting frameworks.
- Strong communication and stakeholder‑management skills.
- Confidence operating with ambiguity and changing priorities.
- Commercial awareness and experience working with suppliers.
- Ability to challenge constructively and maintain delivery focus.
Contract options
Option 1 - Fixed Term
12-24 months, salary dependent on experience and level.
Option 2 - Day Rate
£350-£450/day Inside IR35, depending on experience, clearance and assignment.
The type of person we’re looking for
This role would suit someone who is comfortable operating in a complex, structured and delivery-focused environment.
You do not need to be the technical expert, but you do need to be able to coordinate technical, commercial and operational stakeholders and maintain control of delivery.
Interested?
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Project Manager Defence employer: Match Performance
As a Project Controls Manager with us, you'll thrive in a dynamic and supportive work environment that prioritises employee growth and development. Our South West location offers a collaborative culture where your expertise in managing high-complexity programmes will be valued, and you'll have access to comprehensive benefits and opportunities for professional advancement. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the unique advantages of working in a vibrant community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager Defence
✨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 Project Manager Defence at Match Performance!
✨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 Match Performance or be willing to refer you for that Project Manager Defence 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 Match Performance who’s on the lookout for their next Project Manager Defence 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 Project Manager Defence role at Match Performance!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager Defence
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 Match Performance. 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 Match Performance
✨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 Match Performance. 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!
