Project Transition Lead - Defence

Job Description:

Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition. Our values shape the way we consult and define the people we want to join us on our journey.
We are looking for an experienced Project Transition Lead to join our Defence team in Reading. This role plays a critical part in leading delivery across complex programmes, ensuring effective transition and integration while strengthening client relationships and driving sustainable business growth within highly regulated environments.
You will operate as a trusted senior leader to both clients and internal stakeholders, accountable for performance across safety, quality, commercial outcomes, programme delivery, and service excellence, while building and leading high-performing, inclusive teams.
Note: Due to the security requirements of the role, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK security clearance.
You'll be responsible for:
* Managing the delivery and transition of major programmes, portfolios, or accounts, setting and executing clear strategic direction.
* Owning and delivering projects of varying scale to support wider infrastructure and programme objectives.
* Driving integration across complex delivery environments, identifying and resolving transition challenges.
* Ensuring excellence across safety, quality, cost, programme, sustainability, and compliance standards.
* Translating client vision into deliverable strategies, embedding innovation across construction, production, digital and net zero initiatives.
* Establishing and influencing build strategies, procurement approaches, and execution plans.
* Setting and leading robust risk and opportunity management strategies across programme delivery.
* Building, leading, and developing high-performing, inclusive, multi-disciplinary teams.
* Optimising resources and driving performance against commercial and programme baselines.
* Strengthening client relationships and supporting business growth and account development.
* Managing senior governance forums, reporting, reviews, and strategic decision-making activities.
You'll need to have:
* Proven experience leading large, complex projects or programmes within consultancy, construction, or regulated environments.
* Strong technical expertise in project management, delivery planning, and construction methodologies.
* Full commercial awareness, with experience managing budgets, contracts, and performance outcomes.
* Advanced stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at senior executive level.
* Strong understanding of risk and opportunity management within complex delivery environments.
* Degree in project management, construction, or a related discipline, with relevant professional accreditation (e.g. MCIOB, MAPM, MRICS, MICE)
* Demonstrated leadership capability, with experience driving strategic change, building teams, and supporting business growth.
What's on offer:
* Car allowance.
* Hybrid working.
* Medical health cover.
* Life insurance.
* Income protection insurance.
* Pension scheme.
* Discretionary annual salary reviews.
* Family friendly policies.
* 22 days annual leave + 2 Mace days + 3 days Christmas shutdown + 1 additional day leave for every 2 years of service + Bank holidays.
Our values
Safety first - Going home safe and well: We champion a safe, diverse and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of wellbeing in every team.
Client focus - Deliver on our promise: We own the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes and build long term relationships with our clients.
Integrity - Always do the right thing: We influence positive outcomes within our industry, while always aligning with our compliance obligations.
Create opportunity - For our people to excel: We champion a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities, inspiring our people and teams to develop.

Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates. Even if you feel you do not fulfil all the criteria, please apply as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation.

We are also open to discussing part time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable with-in the role.
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