Portfolio Lead – Defence Programs, 9-Day Fortnight

AWE; Reading; On-site; GBP 58,000 - 71,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

9-day working fortnight

Pension scheme (9–13%)

Family friendly policies

Professional development funding

Employee Assistance Programme

Life Assurance (4x salary)

Discounts

Special Leave Policy

Job summary

AWE is seeking a Portfolio Lead (WUT) to manage a portfolio of programmes and projects supporting our warhead capability. You will lead teams, prioritise work, govern delivery and ensure resources align with strategic objectives.

You will translate technical innovation and strategic goals into tangible capability benefits, oversee portfolio performance across delivery, risk, budgets and dependencies, and coach others while navigating competing priorities to drive successful delivery.

Qualifications

• Experience leading within projects, programmes or portfolios.
• Ability to coach, develop and motivate cross-functional teams.
• Experience in portfolio governance, planning and scheduling.
• Management of risk, opportunities and benefits.
• Working in a complex or highly regulated environment.
• Clear communication with senior stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead portfolios of programmes and projects to achieve delivery excellence.
• Oversee performance across delivery, risk, budgets, benefits, dependencies and resources.
• Coach and develop others, build relationships and promote inclusion.
• Turn strategy and portfolio information into clear plans and priorities.
• Influence senior stakeholders and ensure governance and prioritisation.

Skills

Portfolio management

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Budget management

Risk management

Programme governance

Change management

Communication at all levels

Regulated environment

Education

GCSE English & Maths

APM membership

MP/MoR qualifications (MSP/MoP)

APM PMQ qualification

Relevant professional accreditation

Job description

AWE is seeking a Portfolio Lead (WUT) to manage a portfolio of programmes and projects supporting our warhead capability. You will lead teams, prioritise work, govern delivery and ensure resources align with strategic objectives.

You will translate technical innovation and strategic goals into tangible capability benefits, oversee portfolio performance across delivery, risk, budgets and dependencies, and coach others while navigating competing priorities to drive successful delivery.