Mace
Operations Director - Project Controls

How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition. Our values shape the way we consult and define the people we want to join us on our journey.
We are looking to appoint an Operations Director - Project Controls to join our Defence team in Cumbria, supporting a major long-term programme operating within air system and Defence environments.
In this role, you will provide leadership and oversight of PMO and Project Controls services across complex programmes, ensuring the successful delivery of industry-leading controls, governance, risk, and performance management solutions. You will act as the subject matter expert for Project Controls, driving best practice, supporting high-performing teams, and partnering with clients to deliver successful outcomes in a secure and highly regulated environment.
The role is due to commence in late autumn to early winter and sits within an integrated client team operating in a secure and highly regulated environment.
This candidate should have eligibility to obtain and maintain UK security clearance (SC).
You’ll Be Responsible For
- Managing the delivery and performance of PMO and Project Controls services across major programmes and projects.
- Ensuring Project Controls, PMO, and Risk Management services are aligned with industry best practice and relevant international standards.
- Acting as the senior Project Controls subject matter expert, providing technical leadership and support to project teams and stakeholders.
- Developing and implementing robust Project Controls strategies, frameworks, and integrated controls methodologies.
- Providing governance, assurance, and oversight across planning, risk, reporting, performance management, and controls functions.
- Building trusted client relationships, providing expert advice, and exceeding client expectations.
- Managing, mentoring, and developing Project Controls teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
- Supporting business growth through bid activities, client engagement, and promotion of Project Controls best practice.
- Driving the adoption of digital solutions, data analytics, and innovative reporting capabilities across programmes.
- Supporting the delivery of net zero carbon objectives through proactive identification and management of associated impacts.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
You’ll Need To Have
- Significant leadership experience delivering PMO and Project Controls services on major infrastructure, construction, defence, or complex transformation programmes.
- Strong experience developing and implementing Project Controls strategies, governance frameworks, and integrated controls methodologies.
- Expert knowledge of Project Controls tools and software such as Primavera P6, Risk Hive, Primavera Risk Analysis, Power BI, and other reporting platforms.
- Strong commercial awareness with experience building client relationships and supporting business development activities.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and leadership skills with the ability to influence at senior levels.
- A relevant degree and Chartered status (or working towards) through a recognised professional institution such as APM or equivalent.


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
What’s On Offer
- Car allowance.
- Hybrid working.
- Medical health cover.
- Life insurance.
- Income protection insurance.
- Pension scheme.
- Discretionary annual salary reviews.
- Family-friendly policies.
- 22 days annual leave + 2 Mace days + 3 days Christmas shutdown + 1 additional day leave for every 2 years of service + Bank holidays.
Our Values
- Safety first - Going home safe and well: We champion a safe, diverse, and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of wellbeing in every team.
- Client focus - Deliver on our promise: We own the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes, and build long-term relationships with our clients.
- Integrity - Always do the right thing: We influence positive outcomes within our industry, while always aligning with our compliance obligations.
- Create opportunity - For our people to excel: We champion a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities, inspiring our people and teams to develop.
Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates. Even if you feel you do not fulfil all the criteria, please apply as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation.
We are also open to discussing part-time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable within the role.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills
Location