Overview
Principal Project Manager – responsible for delivering complex, high‑impact projects across business change and technical programmes for GCHQ.
Responsibilities
* Lead delivery of projects from initiation to completion, shaping delivery approach and guiding multidisciplinary teams.
* Operate at a strategic level, supporting major programmes, driving governance and assurance activities.
* Write and manage business cases, plan, schedule and coordinate project activities; manage time, cost, quality and benefits.
* Proactively control risk, issues, dependencies and change, bringing structure to uncertainty.
* Engage and influence stakeholders at all levels, produce clear reports, briefings and recommendations.
* Support and mentor team members, providing line management where appropriate.
Qualifications & Experience
* Recognised project management qualification (APM PFQ, PMQ, or equivalent certification).
* Minimum four GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above (including English and Mathematics).
* Experience delivering projects across varied environments with accountability for managing projects or significant workstreams.
* Solid numeracy and communication skills, with ability to influence, negotiate and collaborate with senior stakeholders.
* Experience in agile delivery, digital or engineering settings, Government Digital Service (GDS) frameworks, cyber security or emerging technologies is beneficial.
* Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, ability to present clearly to diverse audiences.
* Openness to training and development to deepen expertise and progress into senior project roles.
Development & Training
Structured induction, ongoing internal and external training, mentoring, coaching, career check‑ins and project management forums to support continuous learning and professional growth.
Benefits
* Salary £53,000 – £64,841 (dependent on skills and experience).
* 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years of service + additional 10.5 days public/privilege holidays.
* Employee performance scheme recognitions.
* Interest‑free season ticket loan.
* Excellent pension scheme.
* Cycle to work scheme.
* Facilities such as gym, restaurant and on‑site coffee bars at some locations.
* Paid parental and adoption leave.
Location
Role based in Cheltenham; candidates must live within commutable distance.
Equal Opportunities
GCHQ is proud to be a Disability Confident organisation and encourages applications from individuals from diverse backgrounds. All applicants will be treated fairly and with respect.
Security & Eligibility
This role requires British citizenship, a minimum security clearance of Developed Vetting (DV) and adherence to a strict drugs policy.
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