Operations Director - PMO​/Project Controls Lead - Defence

Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition.

We are looking to appoint a Project Controls Lead to join our Defence team in Preston
, supporting the delivery of a major, long‑term programme operating within air system and Defence environments. Working in a secure and highly regulated setting, this role sits within an Integrated Client Team and will play a key role in establishing robust programme controls, providing clear performance insight and enabling assured delivery across complex technical work streams. This role is due to commence in late autumn to early winter.

Note: Due to the security requirements of the role, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK security clearance.

• Managing the development, implementation and continuous improvement of project controls standards, processes and tools, including planning, cost, risk, change and reporting.
• Owning and assuring integrated baselines and forecasts across the programme, ensuring consistency, traceability and auditability.
• Driving programme performance reporting, including progress, milestones, schedule health, cost performance and earned value where applicable, providing clear insight and early warning of emerging risks or adverse trends.
• Managing programme‑level risk and opportunity management, ensuring robust governance, clear ownership and effective mitigation strategies are in place.
• Providing leadership to the Project Controls and PMO team, including coaching, development and effective resource allocation aligned to programme priorities.
• Supporting programme assurance activities, audits and gateway reviews, by providing high‑quality evidence, analysis and recommendations for corrective action.

• A degree or equivalent qualification in project management, engineering, construction management, quantity surveying, commercial management or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
• Strong experience leading project controls or PMO functions within major programmes, ideally in regulated or high assurance environments such as defence, aviation, nuclear or major infrastructure.
• Proven capability across planning, cost control, risk management, change control and performance reporting.
• Experience implementing project controls governance, standards and toolsets across multi‑partner delivery environments.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, with confidence operating and influencing at senior levels.
• Flexibility and willingness to work from the Preston or Lancashire area as required.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain UK security clearance.

• Car allowance.
• Hybrid working.
• Medical health cover.
• Life insurance.
• Income protection insurance.
• Pension scheme.
• Discretionary annual salary reviews.
• Family friendly policies.
• 22 days annual leave + 2 Mace days + 3 days Christmas shutdown + 1 additional day leave for every 2 years of service + Bank holidays.

Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates.

We are also open to discussing part‑time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable within the role.