Contractor - Senior Programme Manager

Ricardo • Van Buren Township, MI

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

As a Senior Programme Manager at Ricardo, you will lead the delivery of complex, multi-disciplinary defense and engineering projects for global clients across a range of sectors. Acting as the primary customer interface, you will ensure successful execution from programme award through to delivery, managing cross-functional teams, mitigating risk, and achieving operational, technical, and commercial outcomes in line with client expectations and corporate standards.

Requirements

• Degree-qualified in a relevant engineering or technical discipline
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in delivering multi-disciplinary, defense and engineering projects at a senior level
• Professional Project Management background; APM or PMI affiliation beneficial
• Proven experience managing risk, resources, and commercial exposure in complex projects
• Skilled in report writing, proposal development, and stakeholder communication
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Microsoft Project; SAP ERP experience advantageous
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to influence and lead cross-functional teams without direct line management
• Customer-focused mindset with sensitivity to commercial and operational priorities
• Excellent verbal and written communication, including presenting to clients and leadership

Nice To Haves

• APM or PMI affiliation beneficial
• SAP ERP experience advantageous

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of high-value, technically complex defense and engineering projects to time, cost and quality targets
• Serve as the senior customer contact, building strong client relationships and ensuring high satisfaction
• Ensure adherence to Ricardo’s internal project management processes and governance
• Define project scope, objectives, and deliverables in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders
• Develop detailed project plans, resource requirements, and risk and opportunity assessments
• Monitor project progress, budget, and timelines; resolve issues and escalate as necessary
• Coordinate effectively across engineering, commercial, enabling, and delivery functions
• Provide clear and regular updates to stakeholders, including reporting on cost, delivery, and quality
• Drive continuous improvement through lessons learned and knowledge sharing
• Support and mentor junior programme management staff
• Negotiate project scope changes and manage contractual variations
• Ensure strong communication and coordination across all project participants
• Occasional travel may be required, depending on project needs

Benefits

• We offer flexible approaches to work, whether that is working from home, being in the office, or as a hybrid worker.
• We're happy to discuss flexible working arrangements.
• Wellbeing is at the core to our culture, allowing employees to flourish and to achieve their full potential.
• You will receive a range of benefits which include support for your physical and mental health.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level