PMO Director

Building better and safer isn’t a slogan, but the way we show up in the world.

It’s how we make sure technology speaks not only in code, but with meaning: better technologies, better ways of working, and more inclusive communities.

We align with what matters for people and for the planet, actively nurturing it to be better and safer.

At the centre, it’s our people who power everything we do. It’s their talent, drive and different ways of thinking that keep us moving forward, pushing the limits of what’s possible.

We’re seeking a pragmatic and forward-thinking PMO Director to lead the evolution of Critical Software’s project management capabilities as we scale our operations and embrace new ways of delivering value. This role will be instrumental in strengthening our delivery system, enhancing predictability and performance of project execution across markets, and driving the adoption of modern tools, including AI, to support project execution at scale, and helping project and technical leaders grow in their role.

You will work closely with the COO and senior leadership to align delivery practices across our different markets (Portugal, Germany, UK, USA), bringing more consistency, better forecasting, and stronger leadership across projects. This role is about making things work better at scale: shaping direction, supporting execution, and driving change where it matters.

Which Brings Us To You, The Person With

• 10+ years of experience in Project/Program management, PMO leadership, or delivery management
• Proven experience in defining and implementing PMO structures, processes, and governance in complex organisations
• Background in software engineering, technology services, or mission-critical environments
• Experience working across multiple projects, customers, or markets
• Strong experience with project management tools and platforms (e.g., Jira, MS Project, or similar)
• Focus on developing people, particularly project managers and technical leaders in their leadership and communication skills
• Good judgement when it comes to structure: able to define direction and frameworks, but not overly attached to process for its own sake
• Practical familiarity with AI or automation in a delivery or operational context
• Hands-on, pragmatic mindset with a strong focus on outcomes and simplicity
• Ability to balance structure and flexibility, avoiding over-engineering while ensuring control and quality
• A practical problem-solver who thrives in dynamic environments and focuses on getting things done
• Curious and open to innovation, with a drive to continuously improve how work is delivered
  
  

Key Responsabilities

• Define and evolve project management practices across the organisation, ensuring consistency while allowing flexibility for different customers and markets
• Establish clear governance models that enable visibility, early risk detection, and predictable delivery outcomes
• Lead the evolution of project management tools and platforms across the organisation
• Drive the adoption of data-driven decision-making and reporting to improve forecasting accuracy and operational visibility
• Explore and implement AI-driven solutions to enhance planning, risk management, resource allocation, and delivery performance
• Lead the development of project management capabilities across the organisation, including training, coaching, and mentoring
• Support the growth of both project managers and technical leaders, strengthening leadership skills and delivery ownership
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and pragmatic execution
• Work closely with Operations Directors, Business Development, and Technology leadership to ensure alignment between delivery, customer expectations, and technical execution
• Act as a key partner to the COO in strengthening the overall delivery system and scaling operations effectively
• Promote knowledge sharing and alignment across markets, enabling consistency without unnecessary bureaucracy
  
  

Critical Software Provides

• Work that fits your life, not the other way around
• Offices designed to make you feel like you belong
• A team that knows how to work hard, but also how to have fun
• Pay that makes you feel valued, plus performance-based rewards
• Your growth is our priority: training, support, and opportunities!
  
  

Plus, Perks With Purpose

• Private Health Insurance Because your health and peace of mind matters.
• Employee Assistance Programme Confidential support for you and your household from mental health to legal or financial advice, were here for whatever life throws your way.
• Home Office Support Get what you need to work comfortably from home, without turning your living room into an ergonomic nightmare.
• Extra Holidays The longer you’re with us, the more you get. Two extra days after your first year, and more as time goes on.
• Extra Parental Leave Two additional months of fully paid leave for both parents — whether youre welcoming a child by birth or adoption.
• Flex-time We don’t clock-watch. Work when it makes sense for you, as long as it works for your team and goals.
• Gradual Return to Work Support Returning after a long break? We’ll help you ease back in with a plan that fits your pace and needs.
• Away From Keyboard - Sabbatical programme Long-term employees can take time off to explore new ideas, projects or experiences and come back with fresh eyes and stories to tell.
  
  

Every day we embrace new missions across industries as diverse as aerospace, space, defence, transport, telecoms, government, energy, finance and healthcare.

Now, the real question is: are you ready to join us and help make the world a better and safer place?

Critical Software is proud to be a Benefit Corporation. A Benefit Corporation differs from a standard corporation (C-Corporation): It is a for-profit business entity, legally defined in the US and other jurisdictions, whose legally defined goals include the positive impact on society, workers, the community and the environment, in addition to profit.

We are an equal opportunity workplace and committed to allow candidates with disabilities or neurodevelopmental conditions to prove their competencies to their full potential. We are willing to move the barriers that may prevent you from demonstrating that you are the right candidate for this role, so please let us know if you need some adjustment in your recruitment process.

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