Scrum Master

We are looking for a Scrum Master for a Defence company in Hampshire on a 6 month contract (although can work from other sites in Woking or Gloucester).

Candidates must have current SC or DV Clearance and also undergo BPSS

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Agile Practitioner / Scrum Master to support the delivery of complex programmes focused on solving varied and challenging client problems. The successful candidate will work closely with project leadership to contribute to strategy, architecture, and high‑level design/delivery of software solutions across the programme.

This role requires strong, hands‑on experience in Agile development and Scrum delivery of software‑based projects, with adherence to Scrum principles and SAFe Agile practices.

Areas of Responsibility

Agile Delivery & Facilitation

• Facilitate Scrum ceremonies including Sprint Planning, Daily Stand‑ups, Sprint Reviews, Retrospectives, and PI Planning events.
• Ensure adherence to Scrum principles and SAFe Agile practices.
• Support backlog refinement in collaboration with the Product Owner.
• Drive continuous improvement through effective retrospectives and actionable follow‑ups.
• Maintain transparency through appropriate reporting (burndown charts, velocity, risks, impediments).

Impediment Removal

• Proactively identify and remove blockers affecting team delivery.
• Escalate risks and issues appropriately while maintaining team autonomy.
• Coordinate dependencies across teams where required (e.g., Scrum of Scrums).

Team Development & Coaching

• Coach team members in Agile values, mindset, and practices.
• Foster a high‑performing, psychologically safe team environment.
• Identify team anti‑patterns and drive behavioural improvements.
• Support onboarding of new team members.

Alongside SAFe Agile software delivery expertise, the role requires a broad technical background enabling rapid understanding of new systems and domains, and the ability to prototype solutions through a hands‑on approach.

Knowledge & Experience

Essential

• Relevant degree‑level qualification.
• Experience in software development.
• Proven experience as a Scrum Master in an Agile environment.
• Strong understanding of the Scrum framework and Agile principles.
• Experience facilitating Agile ceremonies.
• Experience managing delivery risks and dependencies.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience using tools such as Jira.

Desirable

• Scrum Master certification (e.g., PSM, CSM).
• Experience in scaled Agile environments (e.g., SAFe).
• Experience working with technical teams (engineering, data, DevOps).

Role: Scrum Master

Location: Southampton, Woking, or Gloucester (can work on any these sites)

Onsite Requirement: Minimum 2 days per week onsite, plus occasional client‑side visits (typically 2 days per month)

Duration: 6 months

Day Rate: £675-£715 per day Inside IR35

Clearance: Active UKSV or DV clearance required; candidates must also undergo BPSS

IR35 Status: Inside IR35