Head of Programme - Generic Product Development
Role: Head of Programme - Generic Product Development
Location: Derby, Manchester, Warrington
Employment type: Full-time
Salary: £80,000 - £100,000
Closing date: 19/09/2025
We are Rolls-Royce SMR and we’re doing something that’s never been done before. We’re revolutionising an industry. This is a legacy opportunity for those excited by such a challenge. RR SMR is designing a standardised, modular nuclear power station, with the aim of >90% of the design being common across each deployment, regardless of customer or site.
Reporting to the Project Director for Generic Product Development, the Head of Programme is responsible for the overall budget and schedule performance for the project, integrating complex data sets from across the entire scope of work. Key responsibilities are:
* Develop and maintain programme plans, schedules, budgets, and resource allocations.
* Manage interdependencies across projects and ensure cohesive delivery of programme outcomes.
* Develop and maintain an integrated schedule for the entire design and GDA programme, delivering planning updates on a rolling wave basis.
* Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial tracking across the programme.
* Develop and maintain programme dashboards and KPIs to track progress, benefits, and performance.
* Identify, assess, and mitigate programme-level risks and issues.
* Implement structured change management processes to manage scope change and associated impacts.
* Provide leadership and direction to project managers and cross-functional teams.
* Ensure effective communication and reporting to stakeholders at all levels.
* Define and manage schedule interdependencies between the generic design development and other projects, both internal and customer funded.
* Drive continuous improvement in programme delivery methodologies and practices.
* Ensure compliance with governance frameworks, policies, and standards.
* Support business case development and benefits realisation tracking.
* Lead programme governance, including steering groups, assurance reviews, and audit readiness.
* Provide accurate, timely reporting to senior stakeholders and governance boards.
* Use data-driven insights to inform decision-making and continuous improvement.
* Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
* Communicate programme vision, progress, and challenges clearly and effectively.
* Work closely with the business Finance team to support business planning and operations.
Key Results & What Can Be Achieved in The Role:
* Delivery of programme milestones to plan
* Delivery of programme to budget, both in year and across the full programme life span
* Delivery of programme KPIs and maturity metrics
* Proactive risk management to achieve ongoing reduction of risk profile and budgetary contingency across the programme
Key Selection Criteria:
* Programme Management
Strong theoretical and practical programme management skills and experience, including project management methodologies and tools. Understanding of scheduling, risk management, budget management, and change management.
* Experience of managing projects, including complex engineering projects (multiyear, multi £M).
* Knowledge of software/tools such as Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, ARM, SAP, Excel, Power BI and Power Apps.
* Communication And Influencing Skills
Ability to communicate effectively across organisations and levels; build strong working relationships; simplify complex topics; tell data-driven stories.
* Process Compliance and Governance
Ability to define and implement project governance, process such as change management, forecasting and planning updates, and apply them consistently; connect processes across functions (projects, finance, HR).
* Drive for Results
Ability to work across a complex programme to achieve technical, programme and financial outcomes; manage within budget; experience in large, regulated environments.
* Data Management and Analysis
Ability to process and manage complex data sets; ensure data quality and derive insights linked to project activities.
* Qualifications
Degree in science/engineering/technology or equivalent; membership or fellowship of a relevant professional body; Chartered Engineer or equivalent; APM/PRINCE or similar PM qualification.
* Experience
Strong understanding of systems engineering, product lifecycle management, and design assurance; experience in multi-disciplinary teams and large budgets; design programmes in a regulated environment; familiarity with regulatory/licensing programmes beneficial but not mandatory.
Pay And Benefits
Salary: £80,000 - £100,000 depending on experience
* Bonus: Short Term Incentive, target opportunity 20%
* Benefits Allowance: £8,500
* Pension: 12% employer and 6% employee contributions
* Holidays: 28 days + public holidays; buy/sell up to 4 days
* Private Medical Insurance: BUPA single cover
* Life Assurance: 6x pensionable pay
* £250 one-off payment for home office purchases
Company Related
We are Rolls-Royce SMR, a mission-driven organisation blending a Rolls-Royce brand with a startup pace. We value strengths-based development and diverse, inclusive cultures. Rolls-Royce SMR offers opportunities to grow and contribute to a sustainable future.
Inclusion
Rolls-Royce SMR is committed to an inclusive culture where diverse teams can thrive. If this role excites you, please apply.
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