We are working in partnership with a rapidly growing SME delivering into a major MOD programme focused on Fixed Connectivity within the Private Cloud Delivery initiative. As this high-priority programme accelerates into the build phase, we are seeking a Lead Project Planner to define, sequence, and manage planning activities across the delivery landscape.

This is a hands-on, high-impact role that will shape the end-to-end planning framework, ensuring clarity, consistency, and alignment across multidisciplinary teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, maintain, and report a single version of the truth for all Fixed Connectivity planning artefacts

• Facilitate and lead planning workshops with key stakeholders across delivery workstreams

• Build and maintain resource-loaded, dependency-mapped schedules with aligned assumptions and risks

• Conduct routine schedule health checks, risk impact reviews, and performance tracking

• Perform critical path analysis and maintain baseline tracking with variance reports

• Develop and maintain a robust Integrated Master Schedule (IMS)

• Integrate risk mitigation plans into project timelines and plans

• Maintain and update the programme-wide Plan on a Page

• Drive monthly performance reviews (POL), ensuring stakeholder buy-in and alignment

• Create governance-aligned reporting, providing narrative and insight against performance and baseline

• Mentor and support junior planners, upskilling the planning capability within the team

Required Experience:

• Proven experience in project or programme planning within MOD, Defence, or secure government environments

• Strong proficiency in planning tools (eg Primavera P6, MS Project, Planisware, or equivalent)

• Excellent skills in dependency management, risk integration, and baseline variance analysis

• Experience working in hybrid delivery environments (Agile/Waterfall/SAFe)

• Ability to engage and coordinate with multi-disciplinary stakeholders (architects, delivery teams, risk leads, commercial, test assurance)

• Experience with Plan on a Page, IMS, and high-level executive reporting

Nice to Have:

• Knowledge of Defence Digital operating models, including PCR/SPR and HMT Green Book funding processes

• Familiarity with Private Cloud or infrastructure programmes in government/defence

• Planning certifications (eg PPM, P3O, or MSP)

Due to the nature of the project, the successful candidate will have a valid UK SC Clearance before a start.