Position: Lead Planner
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Lead Defence Planner to drive the planning function across complex defence programmes and operational portfolios. This role is responsible for leading the development, integration, and assurance of high-quality planning outputs that support operational readiness, capability delivery, and long-term strategic objectives.
As the senior planning authority within the programme or business unit, the Lead Defence Planner will oversee planning governance, mentor junior planners, and provide clear insight to senior leadership on performance, risks, and delivery confidence. This is a high-impact leadership role suited to a professional with deep sector experience and a strong understanding of defence planning environments.
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead the development and integration of programme and operational plans across multiple workstreams.
• Establish and maintain planning standards, governance processes, and reporting frameworks.
• Provide strategic oversight of schedules, milestones, dependencies, and critical paths.
• Conduct scenario planning, risk analysis, and mitigation strategy development.
• Deliver high-quality planning reports and briefings to senior leadership and stakeholders.
• Ensure alignment between strategic objectives, resource allocation, and delivery timelines.
• Drive continuous improvement in planning processes and tools.
• Mentor, manage, and develop planning team members.
• Coordinate cross-functional planning activities with engineering, operations, commercial, and programme teams.
• Support audit, compliance, and assurance activities.
Qualifications and Experience:
• Significant experience in defence, aerospace, government, or a similarly regulated sector.
• Demonstrated leadership experience within planning, programme controls, or operational planning.
• Advanced knowledge of integrated master scheduling and complex programme environments.
• Strong expertise in planning and scheduling tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project, or equivalent).
• Proven track record of managing large-scale, multi-stakeholder programmes.
• Experience working within secure and compliance-driven environments.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving capability.
• Ability to operate at both strategic and detailed levels.
• High resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and security standards.
Additional Requirements:
• Security clearance will be required for this position.
• Strong leadership, influencing, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• The role will involve working on-site with clients several days per week.
What we Offer:
• Opportunity to work on high-profile and challenging projects.
• Competitive remuneration and benefits package.
• Professional development and career progression opportunities.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.