Head Of Programmes

Head of Programmes

Aerospace & Defence

Location - Cheltenham

Up to £75,000 pa + Competitive Package + Benefits

Leading projects and programmes across world class manufacturing into the high precision advanced engineering sectors.

Are you a proven leader in programme delivery with a background in complex, high-value engineering projects? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, high-performance environment where safety and precision are paramount?

Our client is a well-established, innovative manufacturer of components and systems for a wide range of safety-critical and high-performance applications within the aerospace and defence sector. With a proud heritage and a strong order book, the business is entering an exciting new phase of growth and transformation - and is now seeking a Head of Programmes to lead and optimise the delivery of strategic programmes across the growing organisation.

As a part of an experienced and capable SLT reporting to the Group COO, the Head of Programmes will be responsible for the successful execution of multiple concurrent programmes - ensuring they are delivered on time, to budget, and in line with stringent quality and regulatory requirements.

You will lead a team of project and programme managers, working closely with Engineering, Operations, Commercial, and Quality functions to ensure alignment and visibility across the project lifecycle.

• Own the full programme lifecycle - from bid, planning and scheduling through to delivery, customer acceptance, and closure.
• Lead and develop a high-performing programme management function.
• Drive delivery performance across all programmes using appropriate tools, governance, and KPIs.
• Act as the primary point of contact for key customers on programme matters.
• Identify risks and implement mitigation strategies to maintain programme stability and customer confidence.
• Champion continuous improvement across project delivery processes.

• Proven track record of delivering complex, high-value engineering or manufacturing programmes in aerospace, defence, or similar safety-critical sectors.
• Strong leadership experience, with the ability to manage and motivate cross-functional teams.
• Commercially astute, with excellent stakeholder management skills.
• Familiar with MoD/Defence standards, AS9100, ISO
  9001 or other regulated industry frameworks.
• Strong grasp of project management methodologies and tools (e.g., MSP, APM, Prince2, or equivalent).
• A degree in engineering, project management or a related discipline is preferred.

• Join a trusted name in the aerospace and defence sector with a reputation for technical excellence.
• Play a pivotal role in shaping the future delivery capability of the business where you will enjoy a collaborative, forward-thinking culture with a focus on quality, innovation, and performance.
• The role comes with a competitive salary and benefits, with opportunities for future professional and career development.
• Apply today to lead critical programmes that help shape the future of aerospace and defence technology.

This role is being managed exclusively by Lord Search & Selection so to apply in confidence and to initiate an informal discussion, please submit a fully CV online detailing your current remuneration package and availability quoting job reference 10092.

• Plant
• Manufacturing
• Engineering
• Industrial
• Paint
• CNC
• Machining
• Fabrication
• Metals
• Production
• Operations