Job Title: Head of Planning
Location: Ashton Vale, Bristol + Hybrid Working Arrangements
Compensation: Competitive Salary + Benefits
Role Type: Full time / Permanent
Role ID: SF
At Babcock we’re working to create a safe and secure world, together, and if you join us, you can play your part as a Head of Planning at our Ashton Vale, Bristol site.
The Role
As our Head of Planning, you’ll lead the development and maturity of Integrated Business Planning (IBP) processes across Mission Systems. This is a senior leadership role at the intersection of strategy and execution, ensuring planning decisions support long-term business objectives, optimise resources, and deliver value across the end-to-end product lifecycle. Your work will directly impact national security and help shape the future of defence and aerospace.
Day-to-day, you’ll be required to:
1. Lead the development and execution of operational planning strategies across Mission Systems.
2. Influence senior stakeholders to align planning activities with business goals and customer expectations.
3. Oversee planning across the full product lifecycle, from bid through to delivery.
4. Integrate lifecycle planning with portfolio management to support investment decisions.
5. Establish and lead a mature IBP process that integrates strategic, operational, and financial planning.
This role is full time, 37 hours per week and provides hybrid working arrangements with days onsite and days working from home.
Essential experience of the Head of Planning
6. Extensive experience in operational or business planning within Defence or similar industries.
7. Proven leadership in implementing and maturing IBP processes.
8. Deep understanding of end-to-end product lifecycle management and portfolio planning.
9. Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
10. Expertise in project management, financial modelling, and risk mitigation.
Qualifications for the Head of Planning
11. Relevant further education qualification (or equivalent level of proven work experience) in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field.
12. Professional certifications in IBP, supply chain, or project management (e.g., APICS, IBF, PMP).
Security Clearance
The successful candidate must be able to achieve and maintain Security Check (SC) security clearance for this role.
Many of the positions within our company are subject to national security clearance and Trade Control restrictions. This means that your eligibility for certain roles may be affected by your place of birth, nationality, current or former citizenship, and any residency you hold or have held. Further details are available at