Head of Billable Works
VIVO Defence Services
Location: Portsmouth, Dorset, GB, PO2 9PJ
Contract: Full Time
Competitive Salary + Bonus and Car Allowance. Flexible base within the South West region.
About the role
We are seeking an exceptional Head of Billable Works to lead the end‑to‑end delivery of a high‑value, multi‑site capital works programme with an annual turnover exceeding £150m. This is a pivotal leadership role for a hands‑on, results‑driven individual who can inspire teams, deliver complex programmes, and drive positive cultural change across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
* Champion a culture of “Safety First”, ensuring all projects meet the highest health, safety and environmental standards.
* Lead a £150m+ annual programme of diverse projects (typically £100k–£5m in value).
* Oversee all stages of the project lifecycle – from design and tendering to commissioning and handover.
* Drive consistent delivery against time, cost and quality objectives.
* Promote continuous improvement and efficiency across the portfolio.
* Implement robust programme controls, dashboards and governance processes.
* Provide clear, insightful reporting to the Operations Director and key stakeholders.
* Use data‑driven insights to identify risks, improve performance and inform decision‑making.
* Lead, develop and motivate a multi‑disciplinary team of project professionals.
* Build a high‑performance culture based on accountability, collaboration and trust.
* Support career development and succession planning across the team.
* Take full P&L accountability for the Billable Works programme.
* Ensure robust forecasting, financial control and margin protection.
* Drive commercially sound decision‑making and risk management from tender through delivery.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers and internal teams.
* Act as a trusted adviser and escalation point for complex issues.
* Promote a solution‑focused, proactive approach to delivery.
About You
* Proven track record managing large‑scale, multi‑project portfolios (£100m+).
* Strong leadership experience within a project or programme delivery environment.
* Demonstrable P&L accountability and commercial acumen.
* Deep understanding of construction, design and procurement processes.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
* Results‑driven, analytical and self‑motivated, with a continuous improvement mindset.
* Strong commitment to health, safety and wellbeing.
Attributes & Behaviours
* Solution‑Focused: Anticipates challenges and delivers practical results.
* Driven & Resilient: Thrives under pressure and committed to success.
* Collaborative: Builds trust and strong relationships at all levels.
* Analytical: Uses data to drive performance and inform decisions.
* Safety‑Led: Embeds safety excellence in all aspects of delivery.
* Motivational Leader: Inspires and empowers teams to achieve their best.
EEO / Diversity
VIVO, Serco and EQUANS are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation. We are a Disability Confident Leader and welcome applications from candidates who meet the minimum criteria for the job.
We will make reasonable adjustments at interview through to employment and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds.
#J-18808-Ljbffr