Senior Program Manager

Nurture Talent; Manchester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading FMCG company is seeking a Senior Programme Manager to lead and deliver a diverse portfolio of strategic initiatives. The role involves managing end-to-end programme delivery, ensuring projects are executed effectively, and building strong cross-functional relationships. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in programme management, particularly in new product development and supply chain operations. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential, combined with the ability to navigate a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience leading large multi-workstream programmes, preferably in FMCG.
• Strong understanding of new product development processes and supply chain operations.
• Demonstrated stakeholder management skills, including working with senior leadership.

Responsibilities

• Manage the overall programme roadmap across multiple business areas.
• Ensure all programmes align with business strategy and priorities.
• Develop and maintain programme plans, budgets, and timelines.

Skills

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Project governance

Risk management

Stakeholder management

Job description

The Senior Programme Manager will lead and deliver a diverse portfolio of strategic initiatives across the FMCG business. This role oversees end-to-end programme delivery, ensuring that projects are executed effectively, on time, and within budget. The position requires strong leadership, cross‑functional collaboration, and the ability to manage complex programmes in a fast‑paced, consumer‑driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and manage the overall programme roadmap across multiple business areas including transformation, new product development (NPD), supply chain, commercial operations, and manufacturing.
• Ensure alignment of all programmes with business strategy and organisational priorities.

Project Delivery & Governance

• Develop and maintain programme plans, budgets, timelines, and governance frameworks.
• Identify, assess, and manage risks, dependencies, and issues across workstreams.
• Ensure project delivery meets quality standards and stakeholder expectations.

Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop a small cross‑functional project team.
• Allocate resources effectively and support capability building within the team.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders across R&D, supply chain, operations, marketing, finance, and commercial teams.
• Provide structured communication, updates, reporting, and programme insights to senior leadership.
• Lead end‑to‑end NPD programme delivery from concept to launch.
• Manage supply chain and operational improvement initiatives, including optimisation projects and cost‑saving programmes.
• Oversee large‑scale transformation projects such as system upgrades, process redesign, or organisational change.
• Manage complex operational programmes such as facility expansions, line installations, or manufacturing site relocations.
• Drive consistency in programme management ways of working, tools, and templates.
• Support organisational development through best‑practice project delivery standards.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience leading large, multi‑workstream programmes in the FMCG or closely related sector.
• Strong understanding of NPD processes, supply chain operations, and transformation methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to manage stakeholders at all levels, including senior leadership.
• Experience leading and developing small teams.
• Excellent project governance, risk management, and planning skills.
• Ability to work in a fast‑moving, commercially driven environment with competing priorities.

Personal Attributes

• Highly organised, structured, and delivery‑focused.
• Strong communicator with the ability to influence and build trust.
• Proactive problem solver, adaptable, and resilient.
• Collaborative team player who can operate across functions and geographies.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Project Management, Strategy/Planning, and Marketing

Industries

Food and Beverage Manufacturing, Food and Beverage Services, and Retail