About the role

We are seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to lead the successful delivery of complex defence projects, ensuring that all contractual, financial, technical, and quality outcomes meet customer expectations. This role oversees the entire project lifecycle, including planning, execution, compliance, stakeholder management, and closure. You will play a critical role in driving operational excellence, ensuring compliance with national and international defence regulations, and representing the “Voice of the Customer” across the organisation.

Qualifications and experience

• Minimum BEng/BSc. Engineering or equivalent technical qualification.
• 6–8 years’ experience in project and operational management, including customer and stakeholder engagement, non-co-located team leadership, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Formal training in Project Management.
• Proven track record in managing budgets, resources, and schedules within complex engineering or defence environments.
• Strong background in compliance with arms control, import/export regulations, and international trade laws.

Key technical skills

• Strong knowledge of project planning methodologies, tools, and techniques.
• Expertise in stakeholder engagement, influence, and negotiation.
• Deep understanding of the project lifecycle, scope, and change management in complex environments.
• Proficiency in contracting and managing technical workstreams.
• Knowledge of systems engineering, manufacturing processes, and lifecycle costing.
• Leadership of diverse technical teams, including engineers, operators, and technicians.
• Competence in SAP and other project execution/monitoring tools.
• Familiarity with defence industry compliance requirements.

Key responsibilities

1. Contractual Programme / Project Execution

• Establish project governance and allocate team roles.
• Lead project initiation, scope control, and milestone delivery.
• Monitor project performance using KPIs and PMO tools.
• Negotiate and manage scope changes where required.

2. Planning and Technical delivery

• Develop detailed project plans, including resource allocation, budgeting, scheduling, and risk management.
• Oversee procurement and ensure technical solutions meet customer needs.
• Conduct and manage gate reviews to ensure technical and commercial integrity.
• Proactively manage risks, issues, and scope alignment.

3. Reporting

• Act as liaison between external clients and internal teams.
• Deliver regular progress updates on financial, technical, schedule, and risk aspects.
• Provide transparent reporting to clients and internal leadership.

4. Project Closure

• Conduct gate reviews for production readiness and final delivery.
• Review project performance against budget, schedule, and technical outcomes.
• Capture lessons learned and compile closure reports with recommendations.

5. General

• Uphold company values and PMO Code of Conduct.
• Ensure compliance with policies, defence regulations, and industry standards.
• Represent the client’s interests and ensure the “Voice of the Customer” is integrated.
• Drive continuous improvement and support the Project Management Office.

What We Offer:

HENSOLDT South Africa focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion in our organizational strategy. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive corporate culture that benefits our employees and delivers better outcomes for our clients. In line with our commitment to equal employment opportunities and our focus on diversity in the operational environment, we welcome applications from all ethnic groups. In line with HENSOLDT's commitment to equal employment opportunities and our focus on diversity in the operational environment, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups.

Application Deadline:  12 September 2025

How to Apply:

Please submit your CV by applying directly on the HENSOLDT Careers page. 

If you have not been contacted within 14 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.