Matthew
Senior Project Manager
"I had never heard of project management... but I discovered a natural aptitude for the discipline."
From life sciences to project management: Matthew’s journey into nuclear
Matthew started his working life in life sciences research, but an unexpected opportunity led him to project management and, eventually, to a career at the heart of the UK's nuclear sector.
Matthew talks through his career so far as a Senior Project Manager at Cavendish Nuclear, how he found his way into the industry, and his advice for those considering a career in nuclear project management.
An unexpected opportunity that redirected Matthew’s career
Matthew's journey into project management wasn't something he planned. Originally working in life sciences research, he joined the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), where he helped commercialise their services to the private sector. When HSE pushed to professionalise project delivery and called for employees interested in project management roles, Matthew decided to explore the unfamiliar path.
"I had never heard of project management," he admits. After completing a brief introductory course, he found he had a natural aptitude for it, and was soon managing projects with minimal tools and resources, an experience that built his foundational skills in scheduling, cost management and risk assessment.
What is it really like working in nuclear? Matthew’s route in
Matthew's initial exposure to the nuclear sector came during a secondment with the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR). His role involved leveraging the technical expertise of HSE's research and science division to support nuclear safety regulation. This experience broadened his understanding of the sector and sparked a keen interest in nuclear project management.
One of his early projects involved managing the relationship between HSE and ONR, with a focus on reviewing and critiquing computer simulations used in safety assessments. This work not only deepened his knowledge of nuclear operations but also allowed him to develop important connections within the industry. His subsequent site visits, including memorable experiences at facilities like Heysham and Sellafield, cemented his fascination with nuclear projects.
A career that drives development
Sellafield, a major site for nuclear decommissioning and waste management, brings a different set of challenges to a single-purpose generating site. Its long and varied history means Matthew works across a genuinely complex environment. He spent much of his early career on infrastructure projects before moving into decommissioning work: dismantling and safely managing the remnants of past nuclear activities.
Matthew is currently involved in a pilot project to accelerate decommissioning at Sellafield, challenging long-held practices to remove constraints and shorten timelines. He finds the work both demanding and rewarding, as it aims to meaningfully reduce the long-term decommissioning burden on future generations.
Alongside his project work, Matthew has continued to invest in his own development, gaining several charterships and fellowships that have strengthened his credibility across the industry. These qualifications have helped him move between organisations within the nuclear sector, bringing a fresh perspective to traditional engineering challenges each time.
Supporting the next wave of nuclear talent
Matthew is keen for others considering the sector to know that a technical or engineering background isn't the only way in. His own path, from life sciences to HSE to nuclear project management, is proof that the skills built elsewhere can transfer.
His advice for anyone weighing up a move into nuclear project management is to build connections early. "For those considering a career in nuclear project management, I emphasise the importance of networking and learning about the industry," he explains. "Connect with professionals already in the sector and leverage resources from professional bodies like the Association for Project Management (APM)."
He also points out that the skill set itself isn't unique to nuclear. The discipline required, he says, closely mirrors that of other complex, regulated industries such as aerospace or civil engineering, meaning experience from those sectors can translate well.
Looking ahead, Matthew is optimistic about where project management in nuclear decommissioning is heading. He sees a growing community of professionals ready to embrace new methodologies and technologies to improve efficiency and safety, and believes that mindset, paired with the sector's unique challenges, makes it an exciting time to be involved.
Your questions, answered honestly
Nuclear project management FAQs
What skills do nuclear project managers need?
If you’re considering switching to a career in nuclear project management, your existing skills might just be what the sector is looking for.
A nuclear project manager benefits from skills such as:
- Strong communication
- Conflict resolution
- Project planning
- Risk management
- Time management
Think you have what it takes to join the industry? Browse live opportunities.
What is the average salary for a nuclear project manager?
The baseline salary for a nuclear project manager is around £40,000 to £50,000, with senior or leadership roles making up to £90,000 each year.
How do I know if I’m suited to a role in nuclear?
If you’re looking for a complete career change, joining the UK’s nuclear sector might be the perfect next step, and our career fit quiz can help you identify where your skills could take you.
With roles in nuclear spanning, admin, engineering, inspecting, and more, the sector offers a wide range of pathways for people ready to build a long‑term, future‑proof career.
What are the top companies for hiring for nuclear careers?
The UK nuclear sector comprises a wide range of organisations, each playing a different role in supporting the future of clean energy.
If you’re exploring where you might fit, our organisation hub lets you browse opportunities across each company, compare roles, and get a clearer picture of the employers shaping the sector.
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