Head of Planning

Opportunity Review: Head of Planning at Babcock International

This review provides an in-depth look at the Head of Planning role at Babcock International, located in Ashton Vale, Bristol, with hybrid working arrangements. For ambitious professionals seeking to make a significant impact within the defence and aerospace sectors, this position presents a compelling career advancement opportunity.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Strategic Leadership & Impact: As Head of Planning, you will be at the forefront of developing and maturing Integrated Business Planning (IBP) processes. This senior leadership role offers the chance to directly influence long-term business objectives, optimise resource allocation, and drive value across the entire product lifecycle. Your contributions will be instrumental in shaping the future of defence and aerospace, with a direct connection to national security.
• End-to-End Product Lifecycle Influence: The role encompasses oversight of planning from initial bid stages through to final delivery, providing a comprehensive view of the product journey. This deep involvement allows for strategic integration of lifecycle planning with portfolio management, directly impacting investment decisions and future business direction.
• Hybrid Working Flexibility: Babcock International recognises the importance of work-life balance. This full-time, permanent position offers hybrid working arrangements, combining valuable onsite collaboration with the flexibility of remote work, allowing for a more adaptable and fulfilling professional life.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Babcock offers a competitive salary and a robust benefits package designed to support employee wellbeing and financial security. This includes a generous holiday allowance, matched contribution pension with life assurance, access to health and wellbeing services like a Digital GP and annual health checks, an employee share scheme, and discounts through an employee shopping portal. Further benefits include holiday trading options and paid leave for volunteering.
• Professional Development: The organisation strongly emphasizes professional growth, offering excellent development opportunities and support for maintaining professional certifications, which are highly valued in this field.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Industry and Process Expertise: A strong foundation in operational or business planning within the Defence or similar highly regulated industries is essential. Demonstrable experience in implementing and maturing Integrated Business Planning (IBP) processes is a core requirement, alongside a deep understanding of product lifecycle management and portfolio planning.
• Analytical and Strategic Acumen: The role demands exceptional analytical and strategic thinking skills. Candidates should be comfortable with financial modelling, risk mitigation, and influencing senior stakeholders to align planning activities with strategic goals.
• Security Clearance Requirement: This position requires the successful candidate to obtain and maintain Security Check (SC) security clearance. Applicants should be aware of the eligibility criteria related to place of birth, nationality, citizenship, and residency, as outlined by UK government guidelines.
• Educational and Professional Qualifications: While a relevant further education qualification is desirable, equivalent proven work experience will be considered. Professional certifications in IBP, supply chain, or project management are highly advantageous and demonstrate a commitment to excellence in the field.

Career Path Guidance:

This Head of Planning role is an exceptional opportunity for seasoned planning professionals to elevate their careers. It offers a platform to lead strategic initiatives within a critical national industry, directly impacting business outcomes and contributing to national security. For individuals aspiring to senior leadership positions with significant responsibility and the ability to shape strategic direction, this role provides a clear and impactful career trajectory. The focus on IBP and end-to-end lifecycle management ensures that candidates will develop highly sought-after skills, preparing them for even broader leadership roles within Babcock or the wider defence and aerospace sectors.