The Chief Delivery Officer (CDO) role involves overseeing the safe, timely, and cost-effective delivery of the United Kingdom's first Small Modular Reactor (SMR) programme. This senior position requires the establishment and mobilization of the Integrated Project Team (IPT) to ensure successful delivery from development through design and into construction while adhering to a highly regulated nuclear environment. Reporting to the Executive Project Director, the CDO will act as an intelligent client for the programme, setting strategic direction, championing safety leadership, and ensuring alignment across the client, the Technology Partner, and the wider supply chain.
The CDO's key responsibilities include acting as the client for the initial build and mobilization of the project team, setting the project's direction with the team and supply chain partners, and leading design input to establish a collaborative operating structure for the programme. The role involves managing the contract with the primary Supply Chain partner, ensuring all contractual requirements are met, and overseeing the creation of a Project Management and Engineering structure that transitions from design to construction. Additionally, the CDO will foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement while emphasizing environmental, health, safety, security and quality (EHSSQ) compliance and culture.
The ideal candidate for this role will demonstrate executive-level leadership with a proven track record in delivering complex and major projects. Experience in highly regulated industries and leading programmes with large-scale alliancing or collaborative delivery models is essential. A deep understanding of project, programme, and engineering delivery, including modular build approaches and commercial arrangements, is required. Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills are crucial, along with experience in building and managing high-performing teams across diverse stakeholder groups. A degree in a related field or significant professional experience is necessary, with a Project Management Qualification preferred. The client values an inclusive and collaborative culture that promotes equality and diversity.