Job Specifications
Security Project Manager - Defence - Permanent
This role requires active SC or DV clearance/eligibility to attain DV
Location:Farnborough
Type: Hybrid
Salary:PS60,000 - PS75,000 + Benefits
Clearance:Must be eligible for DV Clearance (Sole British National)
An exciting opportunity has emerged with an SME supplying into the Defence sectors. They have broad technical solutions that span Cyber Security, Software Development and Infrastructure.
They are looking for a proactive and experienced Security Project Manager to lead governance activities within a critical Secure by Design ERP programme supporting MOD capability delivery. This role ensures that security is Embedded throughout the acquisition life cycle, enabling secure, resilient systems that meet Defence operational needs.
You will be responsible for coordinating governance across delivery teams, Defence Digital stakeholders, and suppliers, ensuring compliance with MOD security standards and assurance frameworks.
Key Responsibilities
Governance Leadership: Develop and maintain programme-level governance aligned with Secure by Design principles and MOD policy.
Delivery Assurance: Embed security governance into acquisition programme milestones, ensuring traceability and accountability across all phases.
Stakeholder Coordination: Act as the governance interface between DE&S, Defence Digital, NCSC, and industry partners.
Risk & Compliance Oversight: Lead the identification, assessment, and mitigation of security risks across delivery workstreams.
Policy Integration: Ensure alignment with JSP 440, JSP 604, and relevant Defence Digital and NCSC guidance.
Reporting & Assurance: Produce governance artefacts, assurance reports, and dashboards for senior stakeholders and programme boards.
Audit & Accreditation Support: Facilitate security accreditation processes and support internal/external audits.
Essential Skills & Experience
Proven experience in security governance within MOD or UK Government programmes.
Strong understanding of Secure by Design, Defence Digital frameworks, and MOD acquisition processes.
Familiarity with JSP 440, JSP 604, and MOD assurance and accreditation standards.
Experience managing security risk, compliance, and delivery assurance in complex programmes.
Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills, including cross-functional coordination.
Desirable Qualifications
CISSP, CISM, or equivalent security certification.
PRINCE2, APM PMQ, or AgilePM project management qualification.
Experience working with Defence Digital, DE&S delivery teams.
Understanding of Cyber Resilience, Zero Trust, and Security Architecture principles.
If you're interested in the above - apply or reach out to (see below)
Reasonable Adjustments:
Respect and equality are core values to us. We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. Our success is driven by our people, united by the spirit of partnership to deliver the best resourcing solutions for our clients.
If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason,please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.
About the Company
Sanderson Government & Defence was established over 20 years ago as a bespoke solution to a unique talent problem: sourcing and placing high-calibre professional talent to work within the UK government and defence sector.
MISSION
We provide talent solutions for the UK government and their critical supply chains, including: Ministry of Defence and areas of National Security; Central Government and Arm’s Length Bodies; National Policing and Justice; and the broader Public Sector.
EXPERTISE & SKILL
Central to our success has b...
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