Subcontract Programme Manager

Lockheed Martin; Havant; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A global defense contractor based in the United Kingdom seeks a Subcontract Programme Manager to oversee the management of supplier performance within moderate to high-risk subcontracts. This role entails developing subcontract strategies, managing agreements, and engaging with stakeholders to ensure successful delivery. The ideal candidate should possess a relevant degree and have 4-6 years of experience in subcontract management. This position offers flexible working, with a blend of remote work and on-site requirements.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4-6 years’ professional experience in subcontract management.
• Strong working knowledge of complex defense programmes.

Responsibilities

• Manage subcontractor performance across cost, schedule, quality and technical compliance.
• Develop subcontract strategies aligned to programme objectives.
• Prepare and issue bid packages, conduct negotiations and manage agreements.

Skills

Subcontract management principles

Contract types understanding

Problem-solving skills

Industry standards knowledge

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in relevant discipline

Job description

Overview

Working Pattern: 37.5 hours per week | 4 day working week Monday to Thursday | Remote working but required to come to the office when needed.

Location: Havant or Westbury

The Subcontract Programme Manager is responsible for the end-to-end management of supplier cost, schedule and technical performance across a portfolio of moderate to high-risk subcontracts. These include modified Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS), performance-based specifications and complex build-to-print requirements, supporting UK MOD, commercial and international defence programmes.

Operating with a high degree of autonomy, the role leads multifunctional subcontract management teams and acts as the focal point for supplier delivery, performance assurance and commercial governance. The position holds delegated procurement authority and is responsible for placing and managing supplier agreements and purchase orders within approved limits.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the management of subcontractor performance across cost, schedule, quality and technical compliance for development, production and global sustainment programmes.
• Develop subcontract strategies aligned to programme objectives, risk profile and contract type.
• Lead the preparation of subcontract specifications, statements of work, and terms and conditions for the procurement of specialist materials, equipment and services.
• Prepare and issue bid packages, conduct bidders’ conferences and develop evaluation criteria.
• Analyse and evaluate supplier proposals, lead negotiations (including price, terms and risk allocation), and select or recommend subcontractors.
• Author, place and administer subcontract agreements and purchase orders, including all associated change activity.
• Provide leadership to multifunctional subcontract teams, coordinating inputs from engineering, quality, programme management, finance and legal functions.
• Proactively identify and manage subcontract risks and issues, developing practical mitigation plans and driving resolution.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders, including senior programme leadership and suppliers, on matters of delivery performance and contractual position.
• Operates under general direction, with responsibility for determining how objectives are achieved.
• Works independently, with outputs reviewed at key milestones or decision points.
• Holds procurement delegation appropriate to the role and exercises judgement within established governance frameworks.

Required skills, qualifications and experience

• Comprehensive understanding of subcontract management principles and their application within complex defence programmes.
• Strong working knowledge of multiple contract types and supplier management approaches.
• Ability to develop practical, balanced solutions to complex commercial, technical and delivery challenges.
• Demonstrated understanding of industry standards, regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Capable of influencing programme outcomes and contributing to longer-term organisational objectives.
• Comfortable engaging with senior internal stakeholders on significant commercial and delivery matters.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an accredited institution in a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience/combined education with a minimum of 4-6 years’ professional experience.

Lockheed Martin is committed to upholding principles of equal opportunity, fostering a work environment that is aligned with our core values of integrity, respect, and exceptional performance. We recognize the importance of leveraging the unique talents and experiences of all our employees to drive innovation, deliver superior solutions, and maximize value for our customers. Our focus is on identifying the most qualified candidate for each role, regardless of their background. If you are interested in a position, we invite you to share how your skills and perspectives could bolster our team and encourage you to apply, even if you feel your qualifications do not fully meet all the job criteria outlined in our advertisement. Furthermore, Lockheed Martin is dedicated to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive for all individuals. We are prepared to accommodate reasonable adjustments for applicants as needed. If you require assistance or adjustments to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact [e-mail] or call 02392415270