Area Project Lead

Who we are

VIVO provides facilities management and accommodation maintenance for the UK military and its partners. VIVO embodies both experience and innovation.

What we do

We put our Customers and Families First. They are the driving force behind everything we do. We drive forward improvements for them to ensure the service they receive, whether reactive repairs or a major project, is completed safely and on time. In order to achieve this, we have 4 core values: open, caring, agile and collaborative. These are at the heart of everything we do.

Location: Cambridgeshire

Permanent, Full time

Salary: £55,000-£60,000

Are you an experienced project delivery professional who thrives on leading teams, managing complex programmes and delivering projects that make a real difference? Do you have the commercial awareness, technical knowledge and leadership skills to manage a major Billable Works programme across a busy geographical area?

VIVO Defence is looking for an Area Projects Lead to take ownership of project delivery across their area, leading a team of Project Managers and ensuring that every project is delivered safely, efficiently, commercially and to the highest standards.

This is a key leadership role within the Billable Works function. You’ll be responsible for establishing and developing a high-performing project team capable of delivering the annual Billable Works programme, with projects typically valued at £25k+. You’ll oversee the programme from initial brief and procurement through to construction, completion and successful handover, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget and in line with contractual, legislative and MOD requirements.

You’ll work closely with DIO, TLBs, Heads of Establishment and other key stakeholders, using asset condition information and operational priorities to help shape future Billable Works programmes. As the focal point for project delivery within your Service Delivery Area, you’ll ensure stakeholders are kept informed, risks are managed effectively and the right solutions are developed to meet the needs of the Defence estate.

Safety will be at the heart of everything you do. You’ll champion a Safety First culture, ensuring projects comply with Health and Safety legislation, CDM requirements, Control of Asbestos Regulations, JSP standards and VIVO processes. You’ll also support the development of governance arrangements that provide confidence that projects are being delivered safely, consistently and profitably.

Commercially, you’ll take responsibility for your area budget and P&L, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and economically while maintaining appropriate margins and supporting timely cash collection. You’ll monitor supply chain performance, manage commercial risks and ensure key milestones are achieved. You’ll also provide regular updates on programme performance and work closely with stakeholders to identify and resolve issues before they impact delivery.

Sustainability will also be a key part of the role. You’ll identify opportunities to reduce carbon emissions during construction and throughout the lifecycle of assets, using the principles of JSP 850 to support the MOD’s wider sustainability ambitions.

Just as importantly, you’ll be responsible for your people. You’ll lead, support and develop a team of Project Managers, creating an environment where people can perform at their best. You’ll establish effective induction and mentoring arrangements, support continuous professional development and ensure regular performance and development reviews take place. You’ll be a visible and approachable leader who gives people the confidence and support to take ownership of their work.

You’ll also have the opportunity to influence how VIVO delivers projects across the wider contract, implementing consistent processes, sharing best practice and identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, quality and customer experience.

About You

You’ll be an experienced project or programme delivery professional with a strong background in construction, engineering, facilities management or a related environment. You’ll have experience managing multiple projects and ideally have led a team of Project Managers or similar operational professionals.

You’ll understand what it takes to deliver complex projects successfully, from developing robust briefs, specifications and procurement plans through to managing programmes, supply chains, risks, budgets and final handover. You’ll be comfortable working with senior stakeholders and customers and will have the communication skills and confidence to influence, negotiate and resolve issues effectively.

A HNC or equivalent qualification in Building/Civil Engineering, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline is required, alongside project management training such as PRINCE2 or APM. You’ll also need IOSH or an equivalent qualification, a full UK driving licence and a commitment to maintaining your technical competence through continued professional development.

Experience within an MOD or Defence environment would be advantageous, as would knowledge of MOD systems and processes. Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status, NEBOSH, SMSTS or membership of a relevant professional body would also be beneficial.

We’re looking for someone who takes ownership, works proactively and understands the importance of delivering for both the customer and the end user. You’ll be collaborative by nature, comfortable working across organisational boundaries and able to build strong relationships with DIO, operational teams, supply chain partners and your own project team.

You’ll be a leader who coaches rather than commands, giving your people responsibility while providing the support and direction they need to succeed. You’ll be approachable, open to new ideas and committed to developing your team and improving the way we work.

Above all, you’ll bring energy, accountability and a genuine commitment to delivering excellent project outcomes. If you’re ready to lead a high-performing team and play a major role in delivering the future of the Defence estate, this could be your next opportunity.

The ability to obtain and maintain SC Clearance will be a condition of your employment.

What We Offer

• 6% employee matched pension contribution
• 25 days annual leave
• Private medical cover for self and partner
• Company car/Car allowance
• Life assurance 2x annual salary
• 1x professional subscription per year
• Bonus

VIVO Defence Services

The role you have applied for is with VIVO Defence Services, a joint venture between Serco and EQUANS. By applying for this role, please be aware that information contained within your CV may be shared between VIVO Defence Services, Serco and EQUANS during the recruitment process.

At VIVO, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that supports the needs of all. Therefore, we will make reasonable adjustments at interview through to employment for our candidates and strongly encourage applications from a diverse candidate pool.

We are open to discussions around flexibility and flexible working and operate a hybrid work structure in many of our business areas. We are proudly a Disability Confident Leader. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the job will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities at an interview.