So1 Joint Coherence in London

Unit Role: Cap C4ISTAR is the Cyber and Specialist Operations Command (CSOC) Capability Sponsor for Joint Command and Control, Computing, Communications, Intelligence, Surveillance, Targeting and Reconnaissance (C4ISTAR). This includes being the MOD lead for Cyber, Applications, Networks, PNT, Crypto Modelling and Simulation. More specifically, it is the Lead Command for Command and Control, Cyber and EM, Targeting and ISR.

Position Role: The role of SO1 Coherence is to lead the strategic coherence of C4ISTAR capability development across Defence. This includes oversight of the SO2 Coherence role and broader responsibility for aligning Branch outputs with Defence and user requirements from CSOC, the Military Strategic Headquarters (MSHQ), the other Commands and wider Defence stakeholders. The SO1 Coherence role demands a deep understanding of C4ISTAR strategy, programmes and financial planning, enabling the articulation of coherent capability roadmaps that reflect current state, known gaps and planned enhancements. The postholder ensures that capability development is future-proofed, technologically informed and aligned to Defence priorities, including the Strategic Defence Review and emerging operational needs.

As lead for Capability Audits, the postholder is responsible for producing in-depth analysis of capability gaps, deficits and misalignments across the Branch. This includes synthesising inputs from desk officers, programme leads and strategic stakeholders to generate a clear, prioritised articulation of where current capabilities fall short of Defence needs. These audits inform senior decision-making, support Balance of Investment reviews and underpin Strategic Planning Round submissions. The SO1 ensures that audit outputs are coherent, actionable and aligned to the evolving strategic direction of Defence.

Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic direction and oversight to ensure Branch programmes are coherent and aligned with Defence priorities.
• Represent Cap C4ISTAR at senior Defence forums, including Capability and Force Development meetings, Boards and Steering Groups.
• Lead coherence across programmes, aligning capability development with Defence needs and finances; input to audits and planning reviews.
• Lead and track coherence for emerging Defence and cross-Government C4ISTAR capabilities to inform and align planning.
• Accountable to DHoC for identifying C4ISTAR demand signals and dependencies across CSOC and Commands for Branch planning.
• Engage with Capability Planning Groups to align C4ISTAR development with cross-Government and Defence stakeholder needs.
• Lead C4ISTAR exploitation of Defence exercises and wargaming, ensuring SME input and evidence capture for audits and planning.
• Engage with Commands to support audits, develop options and link Cap C4ISTAR programmes with external initiatives.

Pre Appt/Deployment Trg: (4 days) & Managing Successful Programmes Course (MSP – 5 days). Attendance should be co-ordinated with the incumbent for mandatory completion within the first 3 months in post if they cannot be completed prior to appointment.

Domestic Considerations: This post is based in Northwood, however expect some travel to MOD Main Building, other Mil Comds, NAD - DE&S and Defence Digital. If in SFA, recommend accommodation near Northwood HQ (Northwood or Bushey Heath).

Performance Attributes:

• Leadership: Inspires, influences, directs and supports others in both routine activities and whilst under stress.
• Effective Intelligence: Applies innate intelligence to identify, analyse and solve problems, both practical and intellectual.
• Judgement: Demonstrates critical application of available information to arrive at sound, timely decisions.
• Powers of Communication: Displays good oral communications skills and can produce logical, fluent, convincing and accurate written work.