At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative ISR solutions using cutting-edge drone technology.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company focused on defence and commercial drone operations.
- Benefits: Enjoy private healthcare, gym membership, professional development days, and flexible leave entitlements.
- 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 technology and ISR services.
- Qualifications: Experience with RPAS systems and strong project management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
Remotely Piloted Ariel System (RPAS) Programme Manager employer: Prevail
At Prevail Partners, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our London-based team enjoys a comprehensive benefits package, including private healthcare, wellness perks, and professional development opportunities, all while working on cutting-edge ISRaaS projects that make a real impact in government and defence sectors. With a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing and a vibrant team culture, we are committed to supporting your growth and success in this exciting field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Remotely Piloted Ariel System (RPAS) Programme Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the RPAS and ISR sectors on LinkedIn or at industry events. Building connections can lead to insider info about job openings and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience with RPAS and ISR projects. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow relevant news, blogs, and forums about drone technology and ISR developments. This knowledge will not only impress interviewers but also help you engage in meaningful conversations.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Remotely Piloted Ariel System (RPAS) Programme Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the RPAS Programme Manager role. Highlight your experience with drone systems and ISR operations, and don’t forget to mention any relevant regulatory knowledge. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Be sure to mention specific projects or experiences that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills:Since this role involves working closely with various stakeholders, make sure to highlight your communication and engagement skills in your application. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with teams or clients in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
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 previous roles, especially in relation to regulatory compliance and solution design.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to talk about your experience working with various stakeholders. Think of examples where you successfully collaborated with operational, commercial, and technical teams to deliver projects. This will show your ability to communicate effectively and manage relationships.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Be ready to showcase your strategic understanding of drone operations and ISR integration. Think about how you can translate technical concepts into operational outcomes and be prepared to discuss how you've done this in the past.
✨Stay Current with Regulations
Familiarise yourself with UK CAA regulations and international RPAS frameworks. Be prepared to discuss how these regulations impact project delivery and compliance, as well as any experiences you've had navigating these complexities.
