Program Manager in Southampton

Program Manager in Southampton

Southampton Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Mercury Systems

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead complex defence projects, ensuring timely delivery and budget management.
  • Company: Mercury Systems, a leader in aerospace and defence technology.
  • Benefits: Inclusive culture, diverse workplace, and opportunities for career growth.
  • Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to inclusivity and operational excellence.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
  • Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English, relevant project management certification required.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

About the Company

Mercury Systems is dedicated to advancing aerospace and defense technology to make the world safer and more secure. Our mission is to bring cutting-edge commercial technologies to the tactical edge, enabling our customers to accelerate innovation and gain decision superiority.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Program Manager to play a pivotal role within our Air and Missile Defence & EW Line of Business. This is a high-impact opportunity to support the successful delivery of complex defence and aerospace programmes, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to scope. You will take ownership of day-to-day project execution, maintaining control over schedules, budgets, risks, and governance. You will coordinate cross-functional teams across the UK and US, proactively removing obstacles, resolving resource conflicts, and ensuring critical hardware deliverables meet contractual milestones. This role has a strong internal focus, driving operational excellence. Success in this role will require strong leadership, sound financial acumen, and a structured, delivery-focused approach within a regulated, security-conscious environment. If you thrive in fast-paced, technically complex programmes and enjoy turning plans into successful outcomes, we’d love to hear from you.

Responsibilities

  • Responsible for budget and schedule and related forecasts.
  • Responsible for ensuring governance is correctly followed during whole program life cycle paced by contract milestones.
  • Facilitates resolution of resource conflicts & obstacles.
  • Develops and maintains the integrated master schedules.
  • Responsible for risk & opportunities Management.

Qualifications

  • GCSEs in Maths and English
  • Relevant Project Management certification (PMI PMP or similar)
  • English Language: Fluent
  • Proven experience in similar roles required

Required Skills

  • Strong leadership, sound financial acumen, and a structured, delivery-focused approach.

Preferred Skills

  • Experience in fast-paced, technically complex programmes.

Details of the mission: Occupancy 100%, Beginning of the activity ASAP

Equal Opportunity Statement

At Mercury Computer Systems, we are committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity. We believe that equal opportunity is fundamental to building a dynamic and innovative workforce. We provide employment opportunities free from discrimination, ensuring fair treatment for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Our commitment extends beyond compliance—we actively promote diversity and inclusivity in our hiring practices, workplace policies, and career development opportunities. We aim to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents to Mercury Computer Systems' success. Together, we strive to achieve equal opportunities for all while building a collaborative and supportive workplace.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted, thank you in advance for your understanding.

Program Manager in Southampton employer: Mercury Systems

At Mercury Systems, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the aerospace and defence sector. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous professional development opportunities and a strong focus on inclusivity, ensuring every team member feels valued and empowered. Located at the forefront of technology, our team enjoys the unique advantage of working on cutting-edge projects that contribute to global security while enjoying a supportive environment that prioritises work-life balance.
Mercury Systems

Contact Detail:

Mercury Systems Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Program Manager in Southampton

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the aerospace and defence sectors, especially those who work at Mercury Systems. A friendly chat can open doors that applications alone can't.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in air and missile defence. Show us you’re not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely interested in making an impact in the field.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about times you've successfully led teams through challenges. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your structured, delivery-focused approach.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our mission to advance technology for a safer world.

We think you need these skills to ace Program Manager in Southampton

Project Management
Budget Management
Schedule Management
Risk Management
Resource Conflict Resolution
Cross-Functional Team Coordination
Governance Compliance
Leadership
Financial Acumen
Operational Excellence
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability
Communication Skills
Technical Complexity Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Program Manager role. Highlight your project management certifications and any relevant experience in defence or aerospace to catch our eye!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about advancing aerospace and defence technology, and how your leadership skills can contribute to our mission at Mercury Systems.

Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage budgets, schedules, and risks effectively. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes, so don’t hold back!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the quickest way for us to receive your application and get the ball rolling on your journey with Mercury Systems!

How to prepare for a job interview at Mercury Systems

✨Know Your Program Management Inside Out

Make sure you brush up on your program management principles, especially those related to budget control and risk management. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed complex projects in the past, focusing on your leadership skills and financial acumen.

✨Familiarise Yourself with the Company’s Mission

Understand Mercury Systems' commitment to advancing aerospace and defence technology. Be prepared to explain how your experience aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to making the world safer and more secure through your role as a Program Manager.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world situations. Think of examples where you've resolved resource conflicts or navigated obstacles in project execution, and be ready to share these stories during the interview.

✨Showcase Your Cross-Functional Coordination Skills

Since the role involves coordinating teams across the UK and US, highlight any experience you have working with diverse teams. Discuss how you’ve effectively communicated and collaborated with different stakeholders to ensure project success.

Program Manager in Southampton
Mercury Systems
Location: Southampton

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