Senior Project Manager (SC Cleared) – Nuclear Defence Programme Location: Plymouth – Hybrid Security Clearance: SC Required (Active ) Employment Type: Permanent
Role Overview We are a specialist engineering and design consultancy operating at the forefront of the UK’s nuclear defence sector. We are seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to lead the delivery of complex, high-assurance design and engineering projects supporting critical national infrastructure. This role requires a strong understanding of working within highly regulated, safety-critical environments, with a particular focus on integrating engineering design, safety case delivery, and project controls. You will operate within a collaborative, technically focused organisation, working closely with clients, regulators, and multidisciplinary teams.
Key Responsibilities Project Leadership & Delivery
- Lead the delivery of complex design and engineering packages across the full project lifecycle (feasibility through to detailed design and implementation support)
- Define project execution strategies aligned with client and programme objectives
- Ensure delivery against time, cost, quality, and safety targets
Design & Technical Integration
- Manage the integration of engineering design, safety case, and specialist technical disciplines
- Ensure design outputs meet nuclear safety, regulatory, and client requirements
- Work closely with technical leads to resolve complex engineering challenges
Governance & Project Controls
- Implement proportionate and effective project governance frameworks
- Oversee schedule, cost, risk, and change management processes
- Provide clear, structured reporting to internal leadership and client stakeholders
Risk, Safety & Assurance
- Lead risk and opportunity management, embedding proactive mitigation strategies
- Ensure alignment with nuclear safety case requirements and ALARP principles
- Support and lead assurance reviews, audits, and regulatory engagements
Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as the primary interface with defence clients, delivery partners, and regulators
- Build and maintain trusted relationships across technically complex environments
- Facilitate workshops, design reviews, and decision-making forums
Commercial & Contractual Delivery
- Manage project delivery in line with contractual obligations (including NEC and bespoke frameworks)
- Oversee financial performance, forecasting, and resource planning
- Support bid development and project mobilisation activities where required
Leadership & Culture
- Lead multidisciplinary teams, fostering a collaborative, safety-first culture
- Mentor and support the development of junior project managers and engineers
- Promote continuous improvement and knowledge sharing across the organisation
Key Accountabilities
- Successful delivery of technically complex projects in a high-assurance environment
- Integration of design, safety, and delivery functions
- Robust risk management and compliance with nuclear safety standards
- Strong client relationships and stakeholder confidence
Essential Requirements
- Active SC Clearance (or eligibility to obtain)
- Proven experience delivering projects within nuclear, defence, or highly regulated sectors
- Strong background in engineering/design-led project delivery
- Experience integrating safety case, engineering, and project controls
- Working knowledge of NEC or similar contract frameworks
- Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
Desirable Experience
- Experience supporting UK nuclear defence programmes (e.g., submarine, warhead, or infrastructure projects)
- Familiarity with safety case production, hazard analysis, and ALARP justification
- Chartered status or professional accreditation (e.g., APM, PMI, Engineering Council)
- Experience in consultancy environments delivering technical advisory services
Millbank Holdings Ltd is an equal opportunities employer committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of background, and encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. We are proud to be a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, and we are committed to ensuring an accessible and supportive recruitment process for everyone. If you require any adjustments at any stage, please let us know and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
Millbank operates as both an Employment Agency and an Employment Business.
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