Software-Focused Project Manager
Location: Cambridge (Hybrid - minimum 3 days onsite)
Sector: Defence / Advanced Engineering
The Opportunity
An established engineering and technology consultancy is looking to hire an experienced Software-Focused Project Manager to lead the delivery of complex, software-heavy engineering programmes.
This role is ideal for someone who started their career in embedded/software engineering and has since moved into project management. You'll be working in a busy, fee-for-service environment where projects vary from short feasibility studies to multi-year programmes involving cross-disciplinary engineering teams.
The work is highly customer-facing, technically demanding, and hands-on. You won't be hidden behind layers of process or large support teams - ownership, accountability, and pace are key.
Please note: Most projects sit within the defence sector. Candidates must be comfortable working in this environment and ideally eligible for UK Eyes Only work.
What You'll Be Doing
Leading the end-to-end delivery of software-led engineering projects, often alongside electronics and embedded systems teams
Managing multiple projects concurrently, ranging from small feasibility studies to large programmes
Acting as the primary point of contact for customers, maintaining strong relationships and clear communication at all levels
Owning project schedules, budgets, resources, risks, and change control alongside a technical lead
Driving high performance within project teams through clear leadership, motivation, and problem-solving
Applying structured delivery approaches including Agile, WBS, and Microsoft Project
Ensuring robust governance, reporting, and project controls throughout the lifecycle
Supporting continuous improvement of delivery processes, particularly around software development lifecycle (SDLC) best practices
Working closely with sales and engineering leadership to scope work, estimate cost and timelines, and support proposal development
What We're Looking For
Proven experience delivering complex software development projects
A background in embedded software or software engineering before moving into project management
Experience working in consultancy or fee-for-service environments
Comfortable operating at pace and taking ownership beyond pure project coordination (e.g. procurement, commercial awareness)
Strong understanding of modern software engineering practices such as version control, CI/CD, and testing frameworks
Confident communicator, able to engage credibly with engineers, customers, and senior stakeholders
High emotional intelligence with the ability to lead and influence technical teams
Familiarity with tools such as Agile, Jira, Confluence, Git, and Microsoft Project
A relevant technical degree
Working Arrangements & Travel
Hybrid working with at least 3 days per week onsite
UK and occasional international travel to support project delivery and customer engagement.
Interview Process
Stage 1: Teams interview with senior leadership
Stage 2: Onsite interview (2-2.5 hours) including a site tour and meetings with technical stakeholders