SC Cleared Head of Planning

Head of Planning
Hybrid/UK-based (Desirable locations: Manchester, Liverpool, Preston - remote considered)
Outside IR35
Active SC Clearance required
ASAP Start
Duration: TBC - likely 6 months

iO Associates are working exclusively with one of our long-standing consultancy clients to deliver a key contract requirement for a Head of Planning to support a high-profile programme of work. This is an urgent requirement offering the opportunity to operate in a strategic leadership role within a secure and fast-paced environment.

The successful candidate will be responsible for shaping and leading planning activity across a complex programme, ensuring robust governance, timely delivery, and alignment with organisational objectives.

There may also be a mentoring element to the role, including supporting and upskilling of the client-side planning teams through knowledge sharing and collaborative working.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, development, and management of programme and project planning frameworks

• Define and embed planning standards, tools, and best practices across the delivery environment

• Collaborate closely with senior stakeholders to ensure integrated delivery plans and resource alignment

• Identify and manage planning-related risks, issues, and dependencies

• Contribute to planning governance, performance monitoring, and reporting cycles

• Support mentoring and skills transfer to client-side planning professionals where appropriate

Requirements:

• Strong experience in a senior planning role (eg Head of Planning, Programme Planning Lead) within large or complex environments

• Background in government, defence, or secure/public sector programmes

• Proficiency with planning tools such as Primavera P6, MS Project, or equivalent

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills at senior level

• Active SC clearance is essential

• Experience in mentoring or supporting the development of junior or client-side teams is desirable

Please don't hesitate to apply if you hold SC Clearance and are in the Project Planning space.