Programme Director - Defence

Programme Director - Defence

London Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead large-scale defence programmes, ensuring timely and budget-friendly delivery.
  • Company: Join Turner & Townsend, a global leader in project management with a passion for making a difference.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, a supportive environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
  • Why this job: Be part of impactful projects that shape the future while developing your career in a dynamic team.
  • Qualifications: Must be a UK National with project management experience and relevant qualifications.
  • Other info: Diversity is celebrated here; we encourage applications from all backgrounds.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

Company Description

At Turner & Townsend we’re passionate about making the difference. That means delivering better outcomes for our clients, helping our people to realize their potential, and doing our part to create a prosperous society. Every day we help our major global clients deliver ambitious and highly technical projects, in over 110 offices worldwide.

The Defence Infrastructure Cost Centre provides support to projects that range in complexity and size with our service offerings spanning across Programme and Project Management, Project Planning, Cost Engineering, Risk Management, and Commercial Disciplines.

We provide support to the full project lifecycle both pre-contract and post contract, delivering infrastructure projects on behalf of our clients, that range from several hundred thousand pounds in value to major projects and programmes worth over £200M.

We are actively looking to expand the team due to client requirements and have talented individuals join us who will support our Defence client portfolio, whilst further developing their career, working on a range of complex and challenging commissions.

Job Description

Important: Before applying, due to the sensitive nature of these projects, you must be a SOLE UK National who is able to achieve and maintain UK MoD Security Clearance (SC). See Security Clearance Section.

Turner & Townsend is looking for a talented Programme Director to join our busy and expanding Defence business. We provide professional services to deliver programme outcomes on behalf of our Defence clients. In this role you will be expected to provide direction and management for every phase of large-scale infrastructure programmes across a range of complex and challenging commissions, assuring on-schedule completion within or below budget and in accordance with contractual obligations. The Programme Director must be capable of managing multiple projects which make up a complex programme enterprise involving a diverse supply chain. The Programme Director will be required to demonstrate experience of balancing technical, leadership and managerial approaches within highly regulated delivery environments, such as nuclear-regulated sites and show evidence of engaging and managing stakeholders at an executive level. Experience working with the NEC4 suite of contracts is also strongly desired.

Prior experience must include significant project management or construction management assignments at the Principal Project Manager level. Experience should also include operations management of personnel and the effective management of client outcomes. Must be able to travel to client sites nationally, as and when required.

  • Acts as the Turner & Townsend representative with the client and selected subcontractors during the programme execution. Negotiates changes to the scope of work with the client and key subcontractors. Collaborates with Business Development to market and secure additional work with client. Responsible for following up on instructions and commitments associated with the programme. Participates in regulatory conversations and in public meetings in support of clients.
  • Oversees establishment of the Project Execution Plan, Health and Safety Plan, Quality Assurance/Quality Control Plan, and other documents as required.
  • Establishes the delivery requirements for all areas of the programme, and monitors the draft and final deliverables for adherence to these criteria. Responsible for the development and distribution of a one to two-page description of the programme to all members of the project team to act as the Programme Brief.
  • Plans, directs, supervises, and controls the execution of all business, technical, fiscal, and administrative functions of the assigned programme as required. Assigns responsibility for executing project plans to key subordinates after careful assessment of how to utilize their qualifications and strengths. Provides input to performance reviews and development plans for subordinates. Field responsibilities may include labour relations, local procurement and payroll operations, etc., if required.
  • Mobilises resources, through liaison with capability leads, other offices, or subsidiaries, to create project teams capable of completing effective, quality work. Discusses the qualifications required of the key programme / project positions in specific detail with the capability leads and National Service Leads. Collaborates with the programme enterprise to address programme/project space requirements.
  • Works with other managers, project engineers, and discipline leads to develop budgets, schedules, and plans for the various elements of a programme. Ensures that the programme meets or exceeds goals established in the project plans.
  • Works with the key project individual to devise and execute actions plans to rectify potential cost overruns or delays, or to accommodate significant changes to the scope of work. Advises the client and company management of any such changes. Responsible for maintaining current and timely change orders.
  • Promotes technical and commercial excellence on the programme through application of Quality Assurance processes. Monitors and reports to management on the progress of all project activity within the programme, including significant milestones, and any conditions, which would affect project cost or schedule. Establishes weekly meeting to review project status and formulate programme action items.
  • Performs other responsibilities associated with this position as may be appropriate.

What Required Skills ‘You Bring

  • Highly commended leadership skills and proven ability to operate at Programme ExecLevel, with values and behaviours at the core of your approach.
  • Incumbent should have a broad general technical and business background, as well as previous project management experience on large-scale programme/project types.
  • Able to manage and direct cross-functional teams with credible pan domain and pan disciplineexpertise.
  • Incumbent must be able to apply systems thinking to complex multi-stakeholder environments.
  • Proven ability to perform in a senior management capacity, excellent written and oral communications skills, and a thorough knowledge of industry practices and regulations are also required.
  • Must be knowledgeable of current innovation and how it can be effectively utilised on programmes/projects.
  • A desirable demonstrable history of working in infrastructure, defence and or nuclear environments.
  • An operational knowledge of the NEC4 suite of contracts.

Qualifications

  • Senior Accreditation of competency to a professional body, such as ICE, APM, RICS etc (strongly desired).
  • Strong Infrastructure background In Defence, Nuclear, Transportation or Utilities highly desirable.
  • Bachelor‘s Degree in Project Management or in related technical/business field and significant competence spanning all stages of programme life-cycle.

Security Clearance

Important: Before applying, due to the sensitive nature of these projects, you must be a SOLE UK National who is able to achieve and maintain UK MoD Security Clearance (SC). Many of the clients and projects we support are subject to MoD security clearance and Trade Control restrictions. This means that your eligibility for certain roles may be affected by your place of birth, nationality, current or former citizenship, and any residency you hold or have held. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

Additional Information

Our inspired people share our vision and mission. We provide a great place to work, where each person has the opportunity and voice to affect change.

We want our people to succeed both in work and life. To support this we promote a healthy, productive and flexible working environment that respects work-life balance.

Turner & Townsend is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and actively encourage applications from all sectors of the community.

Please find out more about us at www.turnerandtownsend.com

Join our social media conversations for more information about Turner & Townsend and our exciting future projects:

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It is strictly against Turner & Townsend policy for candidates to pay any fee in relation to our recruitment process. No recruitment agency working with Turner & Townsend will ask candidates to pay a fee at any time.

Any unsolicited resumes/CVs submitted through our website or to Turner & Townsend personal e-mail accounts, are considered property of Turner & Townsend and arenot subject to payment of agency fees. In order to be an authorised Recruitment Agency/Search Firm for Turner & Townsend, there must be a formal written agreement in place and the agency must be invited, by the Recruitment Team,to submit candidates for review.

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Programme Director - Defence employer: Turner & Townsend

Turner & Townsend is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where employees are empowered to realise their potential while contributing to impactful projects in the Defence sector. With a strong commitment to work-life balance, hybrid working options, and a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion, we provide ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Join us in our mission to deliver excellence on complex programmes, all while being part of a supportive team that values your voice and contributions.
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Contact Detail:

Turner & Townsend Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Programme Director - Defence

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the Defence sector and Turner & Townsend's specific projects. Understanding the complexities of defence infrastructure will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their needs during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees of Turner & Townsend, especially those in the Defence division. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how it has contributed to successful project outcomes in previous roles. Given the emphasis on leadership in this position, showcasing your ability to manage cross-functional teams effectively will be crucial.

✨Tip Number 4

Research the latest trends and innovations in project management within the defence sector. Being able to discuss how these can be applied to Turner & Townsend's projects will demonstrate your proactive approach and industry knowledge.

We think you need these skills to ace Programme Director - Defence

Leadership Skills
Project Management
Programme Management
Stakeholder Management
Risk Management
Cost Engineering
Negotiation Skills
Communication Skills
Technical Aptitude
Systems Thinking
Regulatory Compliance
Quality Assurance
Budgeting and Financial Management
Cross-Functional Team Management
Client Relationship Management
Change Management
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability
Commercial Awareness
Health and Safety Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before you start writing your application, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Programme Director position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the specific needs of Turner & Townsend.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, focus on your previous project management or construction management roles, especially those at the Principal Project Manager level. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage complex programmes and lead cross-functional teams.

Emphasise Leadership Skills: Turner & Townsend is looking for strong leadership skills. Make sure to showcase your experience in leading teams, managing client relationships, and delivering projects on time and within budget. Use metrics where possible to quantify your achievements.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread it carefully. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that your formatting is consistent. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.

How to prepare for a job interview at Turner & Townsend

✨Understand the Role Thoroughly

Before your interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the Programme Director role and its responsibilities. Familiarise yourself with Turner & Townsend's projects, especially in the Defence sector, and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience

As a Programme Director, strong leadership skills are crucial. Be ready to share specific examples from your past roles where you successfully led teams, managed complex projects, and navigated challenges. Highlight your ability to balance technical and managerial approaches.

✨Showcase Your Communication Skills

Effective communication is key in this role. Prepare to discuss how you've communicated with clients, stakeholders, and team members in previous positions. Consider sharing instances where your communication skills helped resolve conflicts or facilitated project success.

✨Prepare for Security Clearance Questions

Given the sensitive nature of the projects, be ready to discuss your eligibility for UK MoD Security Clearance. Understand the requirements and be honest about your background. This will demonstrate your awareness of the importance of security in the Defence sector.

Programme Director - Defence
Turner & Townsend
Location: London
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