Programme Controls Manager

Programme Controls Manager

Location:

Edinburgh (Primary); also available in Basildon, Bristol, Luton, Southampton

Contract Type:
Permanent, Full-time, Hybrid Working

Senior Level: Mid-Senior level

Pre-employment screening is required in line with the UK Government’s BPSS. Additional security controls such as National Security Vetting (NSV), Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV) may apply.

The Project Controls Manager will help lead the planning, cost, risk, and data management functions across a portfolio of complex, cross-sector programmes, ensuring planning accuracy, consistency, and data-driven insights for performance.

• Lead consistent implementation of project controls frameworks, tools, and reporting standards.
• Promote planning accuracy and integrity, ensuring robust, realistic baselines and forecasts.
• Oversee cost, schedule and risk integration to provide clear, holistic performance views.

• Create and maintain detailed project schedules using Primavera P6 and related applications.
• Ensure consistency of planning approach across projects.
• Promote data-led planning to underpin credible forecasts.
• Champion the value of accurate schedules and analytics.

• Champion data quality, governance, and analytics within controls activities.
• Lead integration of SAP and P6 data for automated dashboards and reporting.
• Develop and deliver analytics and insights influencing decisions.
• Advocate data initiatives across functions.

• Embed robust risk and change management practices.
• Provide early warning through trend and variance analysis.

• Lead and inspire a team of project controllers.
• Coach and mentor to develop capability and consistency.
• Engage stakeholders at all levels, demonstrating benefits of integrated planning.
• Promote cross‑sector collaboration and best‑practice sharing.

• Extensive experience in project controls leadership in complex, multi‑sector environments.
• Technical proficiency in Primavera P6, SAP, or related tools.
• Proven track record in planning accuracy, forecasting, and data‑driven support.
• Skilled in risk management, change control, earned value, performance analysis.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder skills, influencing senior leaders.
• Experience in coaching, mentoring, and developing teams.
• Degree in engineering, project management or related discipline; professional accreditation (APM, PMI) preferred.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical ability and delivery focus.
• Passionate about data quality and analytics.
• Leadership that inspires confidence and collaboration.
• Advocates for best practice, continuous improvement, and alignment.

• Generous leave, up to 12 additional flexi‑days annually.
• Employer‑contributed pension scheme, up to 15%.
• Free access to mental health support, financial advice, inclusion networks.
• Bonus scheme for employees at management level and below.
• Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and Linked In Learning.
• Employee referral programme with financial reward.
• Flexible benefits: up to £500 annually for healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym membership.
• Flexible working: hybrid hours, part‑time options discussed per role.

Leonardo is committed to building an inclusive, accessible workplace. If you require accessibility support during recruitment, let us know.