Project Manager Sr

Oshkosh; Bristol; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A defense technology firm is seeking a Senior Project Manager to lead complex projects across commercial and government sectors. This role involves full lifecycle project management, mentoring staff, and ensuring alignment with business objectives. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree and significant project management experience, preferably with certifications like PMP or PgMP. Strong skills in communication, risk management, and strategic planning are essential. The position is based in Bristol, UK, and may require travel.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of relevant experience in project management.
• Proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional projects.
• Experience in regulated environments such as defense or aerospace.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning and execution of medium to large projects.
• Manage stakeholder communications and expectations.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks.

Skills

Project Management

Stakeholder Management

Risk Management

Strategic Planning

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Master’s degree (MBA, Engineering, or related field)

Tools

Advanced Excel

Microsoft Project

SharePoint

Power BI

Primavera P6

Job description

About Oshkosh Defense, an Oshkosh company

Oshkosh Defense stands behind those who dedicate their lives to protecting others. As an industry‑leading tactical vehicle manufacturer, every day we strive to meet or exceed our customers’ ever‑changing needs with next‑generation defense technologies and advanced systems. We operate with unparalleled commitment to those who depend on our products and services worldwide to perform their missions.

Job Summary

As a Senior Project Manager, you will lead complex, high‑impact initiatives that span functions, departments, and geographic regions. Your responsibilities will include full lifecycle ownership—from strategy and planning to execution, monitoring, and closeout—across commercial and government environments. You will manage cross‑functional teams and ensure alignment with business goals, contract obligations, and regulatory standards. This role demands strategic thinking, technical acumen, and a proven ability to deliver outcomes in dynamic, high‑stakes environments. You will also contribute to maturing PMO practices, mentoring junior staff, and driving continuous improvement.

Your Impact

These duties are not meant to be all‑inclusive and other duties may be assigned:

Project Leadership

• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of medium to large‑scale projects and programs across commercial and/or government sectors.
• Oversee the complete project lifecycle including scope definition, requirements, design, development, testing, deployment, and sustainment.
• Develop and manage integrated project/program plans, schedules, budgets, and resource allocations.
• Define vision, KPIs, and success criteria aligned with business strategy and contractual requirements.
• Drive compliance with internal standards and regulatory frameworks (e.g., ISO, CMMI, ITAR, FAR/DFARS).

Stakeholder & Communication Management

• Serve as the primary liaison for customers, including senior business leaders and government officials (Cos, PMs, and technical reps).
• Build alignment across executive and cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Lead program reviews and communicate risks, issues, and performance updates to leadership and external stakeholders.
• Manage customer relationships, proposal efforts (SOWs, RFQs), and contract reviews.

Execution Discipline & Management

• Monitor scope, schedule, cost, and performance; and cost control techniques.
• Identify risks and issues early, develop mitigation strategies, and ensure effective resolution.
• Monitor and manage platform obsolescence issues.
• Monitor and manage Quality Assurance activities.
• Monitor and manage platform Safety and Environmental issues.
• Ensure contract deliverables and government reporting requirements are met on time and within budget.

Strategic Impact & Growth

• Support capture and pursuit efforts for new program opportunities.
• Drive program expansion by identifying adjacent opportunities and influencing customer requirements.
• Lead internal strategic initiatives including agile transformation, process standardization, and digital program execution.

Team Development & PMO Maturity

• Mentor and coach junior project managers and team members.
• Contribute to the evolution of PMO tools, templates, governance models, and reporting capabilities.
• Champion process improvements.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and six (6) or more years of relevant experience (equivalent to twelve (12) years total in education and experience); or an equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions of the role.

Standout Qualifications

• Master’s degree (MBA, Engineering / Logistics Management, or related field).
• PMP, PgMP, or SAFe Agile certification.
• Advanced Excel (pivot tables, macros) and proficiency with SharePoint, and Power BI.
• Familiarity with product lifecycle frameworks (e.g., PDP, APQP).
• Strong decision‑making skills in dynamic, high‑stakes environments.
• Demonstrated success leading enterprise‑wide or multi‑phase initiatives.
• Proficiency in project management tools (Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, Primavera P6).
• Experience in regulated environments such as defense, aerospace, or manufacturing.
• Military experience in Land Environment preferred.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to travel as needed.