At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative ISR solutions using drone technology.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company focused on defence and commercial sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy private healthcare, gym membership, professional development days, and more.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for international travel and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the evolving world of drone operations and ISR.
- Qualifications: Experience with RPAS systems and strong project management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: London / Hybrid with international travel as required
Contract Type: 6 Month Fixed-Term Contract
The Role
Prevail Partners is seeking an experienced RPAS Programme Manager to support the development and delivery of ISRaaS (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance as a Service) opportunities across government, defence, and commercial environments. This role will provide specialist expertise across remotely piloted aircraft systems RPAS, wider ISR capability development, regulatory compliance, solution design, and project delivery. The successful candidate will work closely with operational, commercial, and technical stakeholders to help shape scalable ISR solutions aligned to client requirements. The position is ideally suited to someone with commercial experience; strong practical and strategic understanding of drone operations; ISR integration, aviation regulation, and project coordination within complex or high-assurance environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the internal SME for RPAS/drone capability development and wider ISRaaS opportunities
- Lead the design and development of ISR solutions for government, defence, and commercial clients.
- Advise on UK and international RPAS regulatory requirements, permissions, and compliance frameworks
- Engage with internal stakeholders to support bid activity, solution architecture, and technical proposals
- Support project planning, mobilisation, and delivery activities across ISR-related projects
- Provide technical input into operational concepts, deployment models, and capability integration
- Liaise with external suppliers, operators, regulators, and technology partners where required
- Support the assessment and selection of suitable RPAS platforms, sensors, and supporting technologies
- Contribute to risk assessments, operational procedures, governance documentation, and assurance processes
- Help identify future ISRaaS opportunities, capability gaps, and innovation initiatives
Essential Experience
- Ability to translate technical concepts into operational or commercial outcomes
- Strong experience working with RPAS/drone systems within defence, security, government, or commercial sectors
- Good understanding of ISR operations, collection methodologies, and supporting technologies
- Knowledge of UK CAA regulations and broader international drone/RPAS regulatory frameworks
- Experience supporting technical solution design and operational planning
- Experience coordinating or managing technical projects or operational deployments
- Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills
- Comfortable operating in fast-paced and evolving environments
Desirable
- Experience supporting ISR capability development within defence or national security environments
- Knowledge of counter-UAS considerations and airspace management
- Experience with BVLOS operations or complex operational environments
- Existing relationships within the RPAS, aviation, or ISR ecosystem
- Experience supporting bids, proposals, or client-facing solution development
- Security clearance (SC/DV) or willingness to undergo clearance
Benefits
At Prevail, we believe in recognising and rewarding our people. Our benefits package is designed to support your wellbeing, financial security, professional development, and life beyond work:
- AXA Private Medical Insurance: Fully funded private healthcare cover through AXA
- Health Shield Cashback Plan: Claim cashback on everyday healthcare costs including dental, optical, physiotherapy, prescriptions, and more
- Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme: A tax-efficient way to save for your future through pension contributions
- Employee Assistance Programme: Confidential mental health, legal, financial, and wellbeing support through Health Hero
- Free Gym Membership & Wellness Perks: Free gym access for London employees at Manor Gym, plus company-sponsored fitness classes each week
- Enhanced Leave Entitlements: Supporting you through important life moments with flexibility and care
- Professional Development Days: Dedicated time off to focus on your personal and professional growth through training, courses, or self-directed learning
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Tax-efficient savings on bikes and accessories, available post-probation
- Season Ticket Loans: Interest-free loans to support annual commuting costs
- Socials & Team Culture: Company socials every other Thursday, regular run club meetups, plus summer and Christmas events that bring the team together
- Culture & Development: A values-led culture with collaborative initiatives and meaningful opportunities for personal and professional development
RPAS Programme Manager (Technical Lead) in London employer: Prevail
Prevail Partners is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing and professional growth of its employees. With a strong focus on collaboration and innovation, the company offers a comprehensive benefits package including private healthcare, enhanced leave entitlements, and dedicated professional development days, all within a vibrant London location that fosters a supportive work culture. Employees enjoy opportunities for meaningful engagement through team socials and wellness initiatives, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding career in the RPAS and ISR sectors.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land RPAS Programme Manager (Technical Lead) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the RPAS and ISR sectors. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your experience with drone systems and ISR operations. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've tackled challenges in the past—this will set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a role that excites you, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply through our website and follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm. This shows initiative and can help keep you top of mind for recruiters.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the unexpected! In interviews, be ready for technical questions or scenario-based discussions. Brush up on UK CAA regulations and be prepared to discuss how you would approach compliance and solution design. Confidence in your knowledge will impress potential employers!
We think you need these skills to ace RPAS Programme Manager (Technical Lead) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with RPAS and ISRaaS. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant projects!
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:Since this role is all about technical leadership, be sure to emphasise your knowledge of drone operations and regulatory compliance. We love seeing candidates who can translate complex concepts into practical solutions.
Engage with Our Values:At StudySmarter, we value collaboration and innovation. When writing your application, reflect on how you embody these values in your work. Share examples that demonstrate your stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Prevail
✨Know Your RPAS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of remotely piloted aircraft systems and ISRaaS. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've applied your expertise in drone operations and regulatory compliance in past roles.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to talk about your experience working with various stakeholders, from technical teams to commercial clients. Think of examples where your communication skills helped bridge gaps and drive projects forward.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be ready to share your experiences in coordinating technical projects or operational deployments. Highlight any challenges you faced and how you overcame them, especially in fast-paced environments.
✨Stay Updated on Regulations
Familiarise yourself with the latest UK CAA regulations and international RPAS frameworks. Being able to discuss current trends and compliance issues will show that you're proactive and knowledgeable in your field.
