At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational delivery on critical defence programmes and ensure top-notch service quality.
- Company: Major Defence systems integrator with a focus on operational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and support throughout the recruitment process.
- Why this job: Take ownership of impactful projects and influence service transformation in defence.
- Qualifications: Active DV clearance and experience in managing complex defence contracts.
The predicted salary is between 65250 - 79750 £ per year.
Lead operational delivery on some of the UK's most critical defence programmes. A major Defence systems integrator is looking for an experienced Operations Delivery Lead to take ownership of end-to-end service delivery across critical MOD and defence programmes. This is a senior, customer-facing leadership role sitting at the intersection of operational excellence, P&L accountability, and strategic stakeholder management.
What you'll be doing:
- Owning end-to-end delivery across assigned programmes, driving 100% SLA adherence on availability, response times and quality
- Managing operational P&L - forecasting, cost control and profitability against contract
- Acting as trusted advisor to senior MOD stakeholders, owning customer satisfaction and escalation resolution
- Identifying and executing account growth opportunities across existing contracts
- Leading incident management, governance and compliance - including PRF, ITAR/export control and MOD classification requirements
- Leading, mentoring and developing operational and delivery teams, including recruitment of cleared personnel
What you'll bring:
- Active DV clearance
- Delivering complex, multi-stakeholder defence, aerospace or government contracts
- Strong P&L management experience and SLA/KPI-driven delivery background
- Working knowledge of ITIL/ITSM frameworks and MOD procurement/compliance environments
- Excellent stakeholder management skills, able to translate technical/operational complexity for senior audiences
Nice to have:
- Armed Forces background or NATO programme exposure
- PRINCE2, ITIL or PMP certification
This is a rare opportunity to take genuine operational ownership within a high-profile defence account, with real influence over service transformation and customer growth strategy - not just BAU delivery.
Reasonable Adjustments: Respect and equality are core values to us. We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. Our success is driven by our people, united by the spirit of partnership to deliver the best resourcing solutions for our clients. If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason, please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.
Operational Delivery Lead employer: Sanderson Government and Defence
Join a forward-thinking organisation that values user-centred design and offers a collaborative work environment in the heart of London. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, we provide our employees with opportunities for professional growth while working on impactful government projects that shape digital services. Enjoy a flexible working model that balances on-site collaboration with remote work, ensuring a rewarding and meaningful career path.
Contact Details:
Sanderson Government and Defence Recruitment Team
