Programme Manager

The Programme Manager will lead the delivery of complex naval and defence programmes, ensuring alignment with Leonardo's strategic objectives and customer requirements. This role requires anexperienced leader with a naval background, capable of managing large-scale, multi-year projects, engaging with defence stakeholders, and ensuring programmes are delivered on time, on budget, and to the highest quality and compliance standards. Key Responsibilities Programme Leadership & Strategy Lead the planning, governance, and execution of naval and defense-related programmes, related to the local activities (i.e. performed in Singapore). Define programme objectives and ensure alignment with naval customer requirements and Leonardo's strategic goals. Apply operational experience to support programme planning, risk management, and capability delivery. Programme Delivery Manage cross-functional teams (engineering, logistics, procurement, systems integration, in-service support). Ensure projects meet contractual commitments, defence regulations, and export control requirements. Drive consistency in project delivery, reporting, and programme reviews. Stakeholder & Customer Engagement Act as the key liaison with Navy, MINDEF and related agencies. Leverage expertise to understand customer needs and translate them into deliverable solutions. Represent Leonardo Singapore at customer meetings, programme boards, and defense industry forums. Coordination and liaison with Program Management Team in Italy, to continuously ensure common goals, strategy and sharing. Financial & Contract Management Develop and control programme budgets and resources. Oversee contract execution, including change requests, compliance, and commercial obligations. Deliver financial targets while maintaining customer satisfaction and trust. Risk, Compliance & Quality Proactively manage programme risks, interdependencies, and issues. Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and defence security standards. Lead reviews, audits, and assurance activities. Change & Capability Development Support organisational learning by bringing naval operational insights into Leonardo's programmes. Mentor team members, sharing knowledge from naval service and defence industry best practices. Qualifications & Skills Ex-Military, Ex-MINDEF or Defense Industry with relevant naval experience and demonstrated leadership in operations, logistics, engineering, or systems integration. Degree in Engineering, Defence Studies, Business, or related field (advanced certifications such as PMP, PRINCE2, or MSP are an advantage). 8-12 years' experience in programme or project management within defence, aerospace, or naval systems. Strong understanding of naval platforms, systems, and operational requirements. In-depth knowledge of defence procurement processes and government contracting. Proven leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills. Effective working style across multinational and cross-functional teams. Eligible for security clearance as required by Defense contracts. Singaporean or PR Key Competencies Strategic leadership with military/naval credibility Commercial acumen and contract management Stakeholder management with military and government agencies Defence contracting and compliance expertise Risk management and operational discipline Adaptability and resilience in high-pressure environments Flexibility to work and grow with Leonardo's local subsidiary to develop programme management activities for in-service support contracts in Singapore and other likely prospects in APAC Region. Why Join Leonardo Our people enjoy:- Competitive compensation and benefits recognising talent and commitment Continuous learning and development programmes to advance skills and careers Global mobility and opportunities to work on international projects Work-life balance initiatives that support wellbeing An inclusive and collaborative culture , where every voice matters