DNO – Warhead Portfolio Office Mandates Manager

Do you want to be at the heart of real Defence issues and play a key role in the United Kingdom’s (UK) national security? 

Established in April 2016, the Defence Nuclear Organisation (DNO) delivers nuclear capability to deter threats and protect our nation. 

The DNO oversees all defence nuclear business (excluding operations) and is responsible for providing nuclear deterrence; sponsoring the Defence Nuclear Enterprise (all the organisations, programmes and people that sustain the UK’s nuclear deterrent); and advising on UK nuclear policy, planning and international co-operation on nuclear matters. 

The UK’s independent nuclear deterrent has existed for over 60 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, and that of our NATO Allies. To ensure that we have a credible and capable nuclear deterrent for as long as the security situation requires, we are building four new nuclear armed submarines – known as the Dreadnought Class – and replacing our nuclear warheads. These renewal programmes will utilise world-leading technology and are a showcase in science and engineering, highlighting the prowess of British industry.  

Here at DNO we strongly believe that diversity and inclusion is not only the right thing to do but is also essential for a thriving and successful organisation. We know that diverse teams bring a wide range of perspectives, experiences and ideas, which lead to better decision-making, creativity and innovation. We have a culture where differences are celebrated and our people feel supported, included and empowered. Join us and be part of an organisation that truly values diversity and inclusion and makes a positive impact on the world. 

Within DNO, the Warhead Directorate leads the UK nuclear warhead programme which provides a stockpile of reliable, safe, and effective nuclear warheads to support the UK’s strategic nuclear deterrent now and in the future. 

This post may be based in Aldermaston (Reading), MOD Abbey Wood, Bristol or MOD Main Building, Whitehall, London, depending on candidate preferences, which should be declared on application. 

Please note that this recruitment is part of a wider recruitment effort to build the team within the Defence Nuclear Organisation. If you reach or exceed the standard, we are looking for but are not appointed at this time, we will retain your details on a reserve list and may offer you another position in future.

This position is advertised at 37 hours per week. 

This is an exciting, high profile and fast-paced role which provides a unique insight into the workings of the Warhead Group and Defence Nuclear Portfolio of work. There is an opportunity for personal development and networking, as well as exposure to senior leaders.

You will: 

• Support the management and delivery of the Warhead portfolio through the development of an effective process for the management of Warhead programme and project mandates.
• Use the developing portfolio definition to map current programmes and projects in order to identify existing mandates and potential gaps / overlaps.
• Lead the implementation of a new mandate process for Warhead projects and programmes, aligning with the wider senior leadership team direction.
• Manage the mandate process and update these when changes occur.
• Work alongside the reporting team to develop reporting analysis. Providing portfolio level analysis for the senior leadership team.

Hybrid and flexible working can be considered for this post but will need regular workplace attendance due to security constraints. Candidates are encouraged to discuss options with the recruiting line manager before applying.

Skills

• Ideally you will have a project & programme background
• Strong stakeholder management skills with a demonstrable ability to build a network of collaborative relationships across various organisations.
• Ability to understand a wide range of issues, with a need to switch focus regularly and prioritise, making the best use of your time and PfMOs.
• Sound judgement and an ability to make effective decisions, sometimes without all the evidence.
• Excellent organisational skills and a desire to keep changing and improving.
• Strong interpersonal skills and approachable as a representative of the PfMO.
• The ability to work at pace in a secure way.

We’ll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Leadership
• Changing and Improving
• Communicating and Influencing
• Delivering at Pace

We only ask for evidence of these behaviours on your application form:

• Leadership

We truly believe that the MOD is a great place to work, and we offer a unique employee experience. We want to ensure that every single employee feels appreciated & fairly rewarded and offer the following additional benefits:

• Learning and development tailored to your role and broader skill development, enabling you to build a long-term career in your chosen area. Where appropriate there will be offers of training under our apprenticeship schemes.
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• 25 days annual leave, raising to 30 days following 5 years’ service (+ 8 days bank and public holidays), with family friendly benefits including improved maternity, paternity and adoption leave
• A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%
• Cycle Loan (Advance on Salary)
• Thank You Scheme
• Defence Sports & Recreational Association (DSRA)
• Defence Discount Service
• Some of our sites have on-site gyms, restaurants, cafes, nurseries and more

External recruits who join the MOD who are new to the Civil Service will be subject to a six-month probation period.

This post does not offer any assistance with relocation allowances. 

Please be advised that the Department is conducting a review of all pay related allowances which could impact on those allowances that the post currently being advertised attracts. 
 
Any move to MOD from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk   
     
Please note: Interview travel expenses will not be reimbursed.

The Ministry of Defence is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for its staff which includes educating them on the benefits of not smoking, protecting them from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and supporting those who want to give up smoking. Under the Smoke-Free Working Environment policy, Smoking and the use of all tobacco products (including combustible and chewing tobacco products) will not be permitted anywhere in the Defence working environment however some exemptions are in place, please refer to local guidance. The policy is Whole Force and includes all Defence personnel, contractors, visitors and other non-MOD personnel. All applicants seeking, considering, or accepting employment with the Ministry of Defence should be aware of this policy and that it is already in place at a number of Defence Establishments. 

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Job contact :

• Name : DNO External Recruitment
• Email : DNO-ExternalRecruiting@mod.gov.uk

Recruitment team

• Email : DBSCivPers-Resourcingteam3@mod.gov.uk