Programme Manager (Contractor)

General Dynamics Missions System International; Blackwood; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in the UK is seeking an experienced Programme Manager to oversee multiple projects within the defence sector. You will manage cross-functional teams, ensuring timely deliverables and effective risk management while working in both Agile and traditional environments. The ideal candidate has proven experience in managing complex projects, a degree in a relevant field, and relevant professional certification. This position requires the ability to obtain UK Security clearance.

Qualifications

• Experience managing complex, multidisciplinary projects in defence or communications sectors.
• Strong understanding of project governance, planning, and control techniques.
• Familiarity with tactical communication systems.
• Comfortable in Agile and traditional delivery environments.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple projects and ensure timely deliverables.
• Lead cross-functional engineering teams.
• Plan and execute projects using Agile and Waterfall methodologies.
• Manage a portfolio of low to medium complexity projects.

Skills

Project governance

Agile methodologies

Risk management

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Engineering, Business, or IT

Professional certification (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP)

Job description

General Dynamics Mission Systems engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of more than 13,000 top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defence and scientific arenas. In the UK, we are leading the way in avionics and communication systems. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency.

Job Description

As a Programme Manager, your work tasks will include:

• Managing and delivering multiple projects within the organisation, including competitive and non-competitive bids
• Ensuring timely provision of project deliverables, performance metrics, and progress reports
• Maintaining programme budgetary control and effective risk management
• Leading cross-functional engineering teams and collaborating with customer colleagues
• Planning and executing various projects using both Waterfall and Agile methodologies
• Working closely with customers, partners, and suppliers in the defence industry
• Delivering projects within allocated time, budget, and quality requirements
• Managing a portfolio of low to medium complexity projects
• Driving successful delivery of complex engineering projects within the Tactical Communications domain
• Navigating both traditional (Waterfall) and Agile (SAFe) delivery environments
• Proactively managing risks, subcontractors, and finances

Qualifications

To be successful in the role you must have:

• Proven experience managing complex, multidisciplinary projects within the defence or communications sectors.
• Strong understanding of project governance, planning, and control techniques.
• Familiarity with tactical communication systems design, development, deployment, and operation.
• Experience with change management and programme-level frameworks such as MSP and P3M.
• Comfortable working across both Agile and traditional delivery environments.
• Demonstrable experience in leading projects of medium to high complexity.
• Degree-qualified in a relevant discipline (e.g., Engineering, Business, IT) or equivalent experience.
• Professional certification (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP, APM PMQ, SAFe Agilist) is advantageous.

Additional Information

General Dynamics Mission Systems utilises QDOS IR35 Status Review. The requirements of this contract have been evaluated as Outside IR35– Prior to the engagement start you will need to complete a status questionnaire in order to receive the finalised status determination.

All successful/appointed applicants must be able to obtain a level of UK Security clearance that is appropriate for the role and undertake suitable Right to work checks.