Senior IT Project Manager - Armed Forces Recruitment Services

www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk - Jobboard; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 67,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

A global service provider is looking for a Senior IT Project Manager in Bristol. This full-time role involves managing the end-to-end delivery of major IT projects for the Armed Forces Recruitment Services. Candidates should have proven experience in managing complex IT projects, particularly in regulated sectors, and strong stakeholder engagement skills. The position offers a salary between £67,000 and £77,000, alongside benefits like a company car and private healthcare.

Benefits

Company car

Private healthcare

Bonus scheme of 5% on target and 10% exceeding targets

Flexible working considered

Pension – 6%

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing complex IT projects within large organisations.
• Strong experience in managing matrix teams and third-party suppliers.
• Agile and/or Waterfall delivery experience is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of complex, high-impact IT projects.
• Oversee internal delivery teams and manage external delivery partners.
• Apply robust project controls, risk management, and quality assurance.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Cross-functional leadership

Project financial management

Risk management

Communication skills

Education

PRINCE2, PMP, MSP or equivalent certification

Job description

Meaningful and vital work: In this position, your work is vital to the business, in terms of decisions and growth. You will gain a world of opportunity working for a globally operating business delivering essential services across 5 vital sectors, personal growth, achievement and development won’t be hard to find. You'll also work with great people. You’ll find yourself working in a highly motivated, supportive environment where no two days are the same, with experienced colleagues who strive for excellence.

Senior IT Project Manager – Armed Forces Recruitment Services Hybrid – Attached to Solihull/Hook/Bristol Full Time, Permanent Band 3 / £67,000
- £77,000 (Dependent on experience)
As a Senior IT Project Manager working on the Armed Forces Recruitment Services contract, you will be responsible for the end-to-end delivery of major IT work packages—either as standalone projects or as part of broader transformation programmes. The contract team is based at MOD Abbeywood in Bristol, so visibility and regular presence at this site are essential. Defence experience is a must.

This is a strategic and hands-on role requiring expert stakeholder engagement, cross-functional leadership, and rigorous governance. You’ll work across internal teams and third-party suppliers, owning full project lifecycle delivery and ensuring alignment with business objectives, IT strategy, and compliance frameworks.

What you'll do:

· Take full ownership of complex, high-impact IT projects, often with significant business or political implications.
· Oversee internal delivery teams and manage external delivery partners and suppliers.
· Apply robust project controls, risk management, change control, and quality assurance throughout the lifecycle.
· Control project scope, timelines, and budgets, ensuring accurate reporting and corrective actions when needed.
· Collaborate with Business Unit Delivery Partners and Solution Leads to shape repeatable, scalable IT solutions.
· Ensure successful service transition, with full operational readiness and stakeholder sign-off.
· Deputise for Business Unit Delivery Partners or Principle Delivery Managers when required.

What you’ll need to do the role:

· Proven experience managing complex IT projects within large organisations (preferably in regulated or public sector environments).
· MOD experience is highly desirable.
· Strong experience in managing matrix teams and third-party suppliers.
· Proficiency in project financials, including budgeting and cost control.
· Strong grasp of IT service transition, risk management, and quality assurance.
· Excellent communication skills, capable of influencing senior stakeholders and promoting project success.
· Agile and/or Waterfall delivery experience is desirable.
· PRINCE2, PMP, MSP or equivalent certification preferred.




Why Serco:

Meaningful and vital work: In this position, your work is vital to the business, in terms of decisions and growth. You will gain a world of opportunity working for a globally operating business delivering essential services across 5 vital sectors, personal growth, achievement and development won’t be hard to find. You'll also work with great people. You’ll find yourself working in a highly motivated, supportive environment where no two days are the same, with experienced colleagues who strive for excellence.

What we offer:


- Company car
- Private healthcare
- Bonus scheme of 5% on target and 10% exceeding targets
- Flexible working considered
- Pension – 6%
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Chance to contribute to innovation in the public services
- A company passionate about diversity and inclusion