In a world where precision, innovation, and scale define success — shipbuilding stands at the crossroads of engineering excellence and technological progress. We are now seeking an experienced Senior Vice President Project Management to lead our extensive and growing project portfolio.

As the leader of our high-performing project management team, you’ll be responsible for the delivery of complex, large-scale projects — from specialized vessels to next-generation maritime solutions. You will oversee the daily management of a portfolio of large complex projects. This includes progress of the projects across group functions, guaranteeing alignment to costs, time and quality of the product, and support Project Managers to manage the project from beginning till the delivery of the ship. You will report to COO and be part of the Norwegian operations management team.

We’re seeking someone with strong leadership skills and deep understanding of complex project delivery. If you thrive on challenge, precision, and teamwork — this is your opportunity to make a real impact.

We are creating ships for the future. Join us!

Duties and responsibilities

Authority according to approved budget for cost, personnel management (resource planning, recruitment, employment conditions, performance assessment and training) and delegation of tasks and assignments inside the department

• Close collaboration with sales team in pre-contract phase
• Ensure effective use of resources across the project portfolio
• Oversee risk management to identify and mitigate risks in the projects
• Coordinate project management activities and foster common initiatives to harmonize and improve activities among different projects
• Operate through Project Managers to maximize project performance to deliver on time, cost and quality
• Obtain a complete and integrated scheduling of the project execution, in close coordination with the planning department
• People management responsibility, including development and performance follow-up
• Foster a positive and collaborative culture across teams and units
• Continuously improve standard processes, procedures and employee competences

Qualifications

• Higher education in Business Administration, Engineering, Project Management or another related field
• Relevant experience can replace the educational requirement
• Proven track record in leadership roles within project management of large and complex projects in the shipbuilding industry
• Excellent understanding of the shipbuilding and maritime industry, including relevant regulations, market trends and industry standards
• In-depth knowledge of project management methodologies, tools and best practices

VARD works systematically for inclusion and diversity and encourage everyone to apply, even if your competence does not match 100% the above.

Personal qualities

• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to lead, motivate, and mentor project management team effectively
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities and deliver results
• Proactive and positive mindset
• Identify yourself with the VARD values Craftmanship, Salesmanship and Fellowship.

Our commitment to you

• A good working environment with exciting and important tasks in an international environment
• Competitive pension scheme and insurance package
• Subsidized lunch in the office canteen
• Subsidized membership at the gym
• Occupational health service
• Flexible work from home policy
• Free mobile phone usage and subsidized internet at home
• Central office location and free parking

About VARD

World leaders in offering the best marine engineering solutions, we are the only shipbuilders who can conceive, design and construct all types of extremely complex ships, from cruise vessels to mega yachts, naval vessels and high-tech offshore units. Every ship is a unique, state-of-the-art, highly complex and innovative product, a symbol of our culture and the result of the excellence of sound engineering expertise. Innovation, research, technology, quality and 230 years of experience, through which Fincantieri has played a crucial role in the Italian Navy's history.

We are proud of our active participation in all the segments with the most potential, and although our roots are in Italy, we are present around the globe with sites and infrastructure on four continents. We are part of a global network that brings together the work and the expertise of thousands of people who all have different skills, experiences and ambitions. With people of substance, whose value we recognize.

At VARD we care about nurturing talents and embracing diverse strengths, giving everyone the opportunity to develop and grow. Join us and be part of a community that celebrates your skills, and where together we are shaping the future of shipbuilding.