Senior Programme Manager (Aircraft Modification)

Draken Europe; Bournemouth; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence aviation firm located in the UK is seeking a Senior Programme Manager to lead the delivery of a diverse portfolio of aircraft projects. You will manage a team of Project Managers to ensure projects meet quality, cost, and time parameters. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in aviation or engineering, possesses strong leadership and communication skills, and is capable of securing UK MOD clearance. Be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to technological excellence in the aviation sector.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of successful project delivery in aviation.
• Capable of holding UK MOD security clearance.
• Ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Manage the delivery of the project portfolio on time, cost, and quality.
• Lead and motivate project teams for successful outcomes.
• Report on project performance to the CTO.
• Mentor Project Managers and team members.
• Engage individuals across the business for resource alignment.

Skills

Project leadership

Cross-functional team management

Risk management

Stakeholder communication

Organizational skills

Time management

Integrity

Education

Experience in aviation, engineering or technology

Tools

Microsoft 365 applications

Project management tools

Job description

This Senior Programme Manager role is a position within the Draken CTO team to lead the delivery of a growing portfolio of Aircraft development and modification projects. Responsibilities include directing and managing a small team of Project Managers to deliver several projects or work packages to the agreed scope within planned quality, time, and cost parameters. The role will be required to manage a project portfolio across aircraft modifications, electronics and aerospace systems and technology, and to lead the business through the management of change. As a technology leader the postholder will need to motivate and inspire project teams to deliver the outcomes and results required. A successful track record of delivery as a project leader working in aviation, engineering and/or technology is essential.

What You'll Do

• Deliver the project portfolio to agreed time, cost and quality parameters.
• Lead, direct, manage and motivate cross-functional teams to ensure successful delivery.
• Proactively manage risks and issues across the portfolio of investment projects.
• Ensure effective and open communication across the project teams and with stakeholders.
• Manage relationships with key investment sponsors, customers and suppliers.
• Lead the management of change in the business from development to delivery.
• Manage the technology delivery plan to out-turn the Draken technology roadmap.
• Report monthly on project performance to the CTO.
• Provide project management support to the Red Force Steering Group.
• Mentor and support Project Managers and team members.

What you need to deliver

• Delivery of the Draken Project Portfolio
• Clear metrication of project portfolio performance, including identification of risks and their mitigation.
• Engagement of people across the business to ensure resources are applied to meet the needs of both the Draken technology plan and customer contract delivery.
• Application of project portfolio and strategic change processes, tools and skills.
• Proactive identification, ownership and delivery of strategic improvement and opportunities for beneficial change.
• Extensive experience as a successful project leader working in aviation, engineering and/or technology.
• Understand technology advances and integrate them into PM practice.
• Proficient in standard project, risk and financial toolsets.
• Proficient across suite of Microsoft 365 applications.
• Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders at all ranks/grades.
• High level of personal and professional integrity.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.

Security

• Capable of holding UK MOD security clearance.

We are currently looking to hire a Senior Programme Manager – Are you ready to shape the future of Draken in one of the most dynamic aviation environments? At Draken, you'll be part of a mission‑driven team dedicated to excellence in defence aviation. You'll have the opportunity to work at the forefront of cutting‑edge technology, tackle complex challenges, and contribute to ensuring military readiness across the globe.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Apply today and join Draken Europe – where innovation meets action.