Portfolio Manager
Portfolio / Programme Lead - DV Cleared
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire (Hybrid - 2x days a week on site)
Permanent
We’re partnering with a high-trust technology consultancy delivering advanced software, AI and complex systems into highly sensitive government environments.
Due to continued growth across defence and national security programmes, we’re seeking a DV Cleared, Portfolio / Programme Lead to take ownership of a complex portfolio of secure projects - leading Project Managers and engineering teams to deliver mission-critical outcomes.
This role would suit an experienced Programme or Portfolio Lead, or a Project Manager ready to step up into broader portfolio ownership.
The Role
- Own and oversee a portfolio of defence / national security projects
- Lead, mentor and develop Project Managers and engineering leads
- Provide strategic oversight across multiple concurrent, high-security workstreams
- Ensure strong governance, risk management, financial control and delivery assurance
- Engage with external senior stakeholders within secure government environments
- Step into hands-on project management where required to stabilise or accelerate delivery
- Drive continuous improvement across delivery frameworks, reporting and capability
- Support growth strategy and future pipeline shaping
What We’re Looking For
- Current DV Clearance (essential - must already hold active DV)
- Proven experience delivering projects within defence or national security environments
- Strong understanding of governance and delivery in high-assurance settings
- Experience managing complex stakeholders in secure government contexts
- Demonstrable leadership capability - managing Project Managers and/or technical teams
- Confident operating both strategically and tactically
- Background in software, data, AI or complex technical programmes desirable
This could be an excellent opportunity for an experienced Programme or Portfolio Lead, or Project Manager ready to step into programme or portfolio leadership, with the support of an established and highly respected consultancy.
If you hold active DV clearance and are ready to lead at portfolio level within national security, I’d welcome a confidential discussion.