Head of Strategic Projects & Transformation

Lancaster University; Bailrigg; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous employer pension

39 days off a year

Family-friendly policies

Flexible benefits

Job summary

Lancaster University is seeking a strategic and forward-thinking Head of Strategic Projects to shape and deliver transformational programmes as we launch our new Institutional Strategy for 2027-32. You will lead a portfolio of strategic projects, guide senior stakeholders and develop a high-performing team of project managers.

The role demands extensive experience in delivering organisation-wide change within a large institution, superb governance and reporting capabilities, and the ability to

Qualifications

• Proven track record leading a PM/portfolio function.
• Experience delivering transformational change across large organisations.
• Strong influencing and relationship-building with senior stakeholders.
• Ability to establish structures, processes and reporting that provide transparency.

Responsibilities

• Shape and manage a portfolio of strategic projects aligned to University priorities.
• Support, coach and develop a team of project and programme managers.
• Strengthen programme and project management processes, governance and assurance.
• Ensure risks are effectively managed and benefits are clearly defined and measured.
• Oversee delivery plans, KPIs, budgets, milestones and dependencies.
• Provide clear, timely and transparent reporting to senior leaders and governing bodies.
• Build effective partnerships across senior academic and professional services stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Governance

Strategic planning

Change management

Education

Degree in a relevant field or professional qualification

Job description

Lancaster University is seeking a strategic and forward-thinking Head of Strategic Projects to shape and deliver transformational programmes as we launch our new Institutional Strategy for 2027-32. You will lead a portfolio of strategic projects, guide senior stakeholders and develop a high-performing team of project managers.

The role demands extensive experience in delivering organisation-wide change within a large institution, superb governance and reporting capabilities, and the ability to