At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead multidisciplinary Defence design programmes and manage client relationships from concept to delivery.
- Company: Growing consultancy in the UK Defence sector with a focus on innovative projects.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, hybrid working, and genuine career progression.
- Other info: Opportunity to shape a key Defence client account and work in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-profile Defence projects while building trusted client relationships.
- Qualifications: Experience in programme or project management within the built environment, ideally in Defence.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Lead Complex Defence Design Programmes That Make a Difference.
If you're looking for a role where you'll genuinely influence projects, build trusted client relationships and take ownership of multidisciplinary design programmes from concept through to delivery, this could be exactly what you've been waiting for.
We're supporting a growing multidisciplinary consultancy that continues to secure high-profile work across the UK Defence sector. As part of their continued growth, they're looking to appoint an experienced Programme Lead to become the primary interface between clients, framework partners and internal design teams.
This isn't a traditional Project Management position. It's an opportunity to become the trusted lead across a growing portfolio of Defence design programmes, coordinating Architecture, Structural and MEP teams while ensuring projects are delivered commercially, technically and operationally to the highest standards.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the Head of Operations Delivery, you'll take ownership of an expanding Defence account, managing client relationships from the earliest enquiry through to completed design. You'll define project scope, prepare commercially robust fee proposals, coordinate multidisciplinary teams and ensure programmes remain on track across RIBA Stages 0–6.
Working closely with clients, contractors and internal specialists, you'll become the trusted lead responsible for delivering clarity, confidence and successful outcomes across multiple concurrent projects.
What You'll Be Doing
- Acting as the primary client contact across a portfolio of Defence projects.
- Leading multidisciplinary design programmes across Architecture, Structural and MEP disciplines.
- Coordinating projects throughout RIBA Stages 0–6.
- Preparing commercially robust fee proposals and defining project scope.
- Leading programme meetings with clients, contractors and framework partners.
- Managing programme milestones, risks and design deliverables.
- Coordinating BIM information management in line with ISO 19650.
- Monitoring commercial performance, programme reporting and financial forecasting.
- Helping grow and strengthen a key Defence client account through exceptional programme leadership.
About You
You'll already have experience leading multidisciplinary design or programme delivery within the built environment and enjoy working directly with clients to deliver technically challenging projects. You'll ideally bring experience of:
- Programme, Design or Project Management
- Coordinating multidisciplinary Architecture, Structural and MEP teams
- Delivering projects across RIBA Stages 0–6
- Preparing commercially sound fee proposals
- Building long-term client relationships
- Commercial awareness and financial management
- Construction technology and design coordination
Experience within Defence, MOD or other secure environments would be highly advantageous, together with knowledge of BIM, ISO 19650 and NEC contracts. Professional membership such as MRICS or MCIOB would also be welcomed.
What's On Offer?
- £60,000 - £75,000 Basic Salary
- Performance Bonus
- Hybrid Working
- Genuine Career Progression
- High Levels of Client Ownership
- Complex, High-Profile Defence Design Programmes
- Opportunity to shape and grow a strategically important client account
Security Requirements
Please note: Due to client security requirements associated with this position, applications can only be considered from sole British Nationals who are eligible to obtain the appropriate level of UK Security Clearance.
If you're an experienced Programme, Design or Project Management professional looking to play a pivotal role in the delivery of nationally significant Defence programmes, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today or contact Karl Davies for a confidential discussion.
Programme Lead - Defence in Southampton employer: Torchlight Recruitment Solutions
Torchlight Recruitment Solutions is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the Construction and Facilities Management sectors. Employees benefit from comprehensive professional development opportunities, a supportive hybrid working environment, and the chance to engage with cutting-edge technology and AI tools, making it a rewarding place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their careers.
Contact Details:
Torchlight Recruitment Solutions Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Lead - Defence in Southampton
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We think you need these skills to ace Programme Lead - Defence in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at Torchlight Recruitment Solutions
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Torchlight Recruitment Solutions, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
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Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
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✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
