Project Delivery Manager (Ukraine Operations)

About Us STARK is a new kind of defence technology company revolutionising the way autonomous systems are deployed across multiple domains. We design, develop and manufacture high performance unmanned systems that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and cost effective. This provides our operators with a decisive edge in highly contested environments.

We’re focused on delivering deployable, high-performance systems—not future promises. In a time of rising threats, STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe—today. Your mission

We are seeking a seasoned operational and project delivery leader with deep experience working in Ukraine and across multinational, high-tempo environments. You will be responsible for supporting the country lead in end-to-end project execution for secured contracts in Ukraine—driving delivery excellence, building strong in-country relationships, and ensuring our systems reach operators quickly, safely, and with maximum operational advantage.

This role is ideal for a commercial-minded operations professional with a background in defence, technology, engineering, or complex logistics programmes.

Responsibilities

Project Planning & Delivery

• Support planning, execution, and delivery of in-country programmes, ensuring performance against cost, time, and quality commitments.
  
  

• Build relationships with key-suppliers, forecasting models, and governance mechanisms to give clarity and control across all delivery milestones.
  
  

• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration between UK teams, engineering, supply chain, operations, and partner organisations.
  
  

• Monitor progress continuously, managing risks and adjusting plans to maintain delivery momentum in dynamic environments.
  
  

Liaison & Stakeholder Management

• Support the primary in-country liaison with partner forces, suppliers, governmental bodies, and STARK’s internal teams.
  
  

• Build trusted relationships that underpin long-term cooperation, transparency, and mission success.
  
  

Logistics & Operational Security

• Oversee logistics, movement control, and in-country support for project delivery and T&E activities.
  
  

• Ensure strict adherence to Operational Security policies, safeguarding people, assets, and sensitive information.
  
  

Customer Advisory & Relationship Management

• Act as a trusted adviser to customers and partners, shaping CONOPs, feasibility assessments, and tailored technical solutions.
  
  

• Understand the operational realities on the ground and help customers realise the full value of STARK systems.
  
  

• Nurture long-term relationships that support future growth and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience operating in Ukraine, with a strong grasp of local dynamics and multinational project delivery.
  
  

• Proven leadership in complex programmes involving engineering, European supply chains, logistics, defence, or technology.
  
  

• Exceptional stakeholder management skills across cultures, functions, and seniority levels.
  
  

• Strong communication, negotiation, risk management, and problem-solving abilities.
  
  

• Ukrainian and/or Russian language skills are highly advantageous.
  
  

• Ability to thrive in dynamic, ambiguous, and high-tempo environments.
  
  

• Eligible for UK Security Clearance at SC level (DV desirable).
  

• Willingness to travel frequently to Ukraine up to 70 days per year