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:

•\tLead the development and integration of programme and operational plans across multiple workstreams.

•\tEstablish and maintain planning standards, governance processes, and reporting frameworks.

•\tProvide strategic oversight of schedules, milestones, dependencies, and critical paths.

•\tConduct scenario planning, risk analysis, and mitigation strategy development.

•\tDeliver high-quality planning reports and briefings to senior leadership and stakeholders.

•\tEnsure alignment between strategic objectives, resource allocation, and delivery timelines.

•\tDrive continuous improvement in planning processes and tools.

•\tMentor, manage, and develop planning team members.

•\tCoordinate cross-functional planning activities with engineering, operations, commercial, and programme teams.

•\tSupport audit, compliance, and assurance activities.

Qualifications and Experience:

•\tSignificant experience in defence, aerospace, government, or a similarly regulated sector.

•\tDemonstrated leadership experience within planning, programme controls, or operational planning.

•\tAdvanced knowledge of integrated master scheduling and complex programme environments.

•\tStrong expertise in planning and scheduling tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project, or equivalent).

•\tProven track record of managing large-scale, multi-stakeholder programmes.

•\tExperience working within secure and compliance-driven environments.

•\tExceptional analytical and problem-solving capability.

•\tAbility to operate at both strategic and detailed levels.

•\tHigh resilience and ability to perform under pressure.

•\tStrong written and verbal communication skills.

•\tCommitment to maintaining confidentiality and security standards.

Additional Requirements:

•\tSecurity clearance will be required for this position.

•\tStrong leadership, influencing, and stakeholder engagement skills.

•\tThe role will involve working on-site with clients several days per week.

What we Offer:

•\tOpportunity to work on high-profile and challenging projects.

•\tCompetitive remuneration and benefits package.

•\tProfessional development and career progression opportunities.

•\tA supportive and collaborative working environment.