Project Manager (Contract) – Reading (Hybrid) – Defence & Security We’re recruiting for a Project Manager to support the planning, coordination and delivery of sensitive projects across the defence and security sector. You’ll work under the guidance of senior project/programme managers and help keep delivery on track across scope, time and budget. * Reading, Berkshire (Hybrid working) * Active SC clearance is mandatory * Rate up to £63.80ph inside IR35 Key responsibilities * Support creation and maintenance of project plans, schedules and resource allocations * Track progress against milestones/deliverables and escalate risks or delays * Maintain project documentation (plans, RAID logs, status reporting, action trackers) * Coordinate meetings, prepare agendas, capture actions and decisions * Support stakeholder communications across technical teams, business users and suppliers * Assist with risk and issue management (logging, mitigation follow-up) * Support budget/resource tracking, including POs and invoices where required * Support governance, audit and compliance requirements Skills and experience (essential) * Strong organisation and time-management skills * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills * Collaborative approach and ability to work in a team environment * Basic understanding of project management principles and methodologies * MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and familiarity with tools such as MS Project, Jira or Trello * Analytical mindset and strong attention to detail * Experience supporting work in MOD / Defence Digital / UK aerospace or wider defence & security environments Desirable * Exposure to digital transformation or technology projects * Knowledge of Agile, Waterfall and hybrid delivery approaches * Experience with tools such as Azure DevOps and/or Jira * Relevant certifications (e.g., PRINCE2 Foundation, AgilePM Foundation) What you’ll get * Opportunity to develop project management skills on complex, sensitive programmes * Support and mentoring from experienced project professionals * Exposure to governance, compliance, and structured delivery frameworks Apply If you’re a motivated Project Manager with active SC clearance and experience supporting defence/security programmes, please apply or get in touch to discuss