Senior Project Manager - Schools Improvement Programme

4M Recruitment; Liverpool; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Part time

Job summary

An established recruitment agency is seeking a Senior Project Manager for a 3-month contract in Liverpool to lead the Schools Improvement Programme. You'll handle high-impact projects with a budget of around £4 million, ensuring compliance with financial and reporting standards while managing various stakeholders. Ideal candidates will have a professional qualification in the built environment and accredited project management certification.

Qualifications

• Professional experience in delivering education/capital projects to tight deadlines.
• Knowledge of DfE funding and public sector processes.
• Excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop a prioritisation methodology using condition surveys.
• Manage the 2026 schools improvement programme pipeline.
• Produce a Cabinet Report with recommendations.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Project management

Communication

Budget management

Education

Professional qualification in the built environment

Accredited Project Management qualification

Job description

Overview

Our client is currently looking to recruit a Senior Project Manager working on the Schools Improvement Programme, initially on a 3 month contract.

Senior Project Manager Schools Improvement Programme

£475 per day inside IR35

Liverpool (Hybrid minimum 2-3 days per week in office)

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to lead the development of the 2026 capital improvement programme for primary schools across Liverpool. This short-term contract offers the opportunity to work on high-impact education infrastructure projects valued at approximately £4 million, shaping the future learning environment for local children.

You ll manage a wide-ranging portfolio, including internal refurbishments, services upgrades, extensions, and external repairs, and lead the strategic planning and stakeholder engagement process for the upcoming programme.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop a prioritisation methodology using condition surveys and AMP data.
• Manage the 2026 schools improvement programme pipeline.
• Produce a Cabinet Report with programme recommendations for November 2025.
• Oversee external consultants on design and tender packages.
• Set the delivery schedule for 2026 projects.
• Manage 1 FTE Senior Project Manager and liaise with internal departments (e.g. Planning).
• Provide advice to schools on asset management responsibilities.
• Monitor progress and ensure compliance with financial and reporting procedures.
• Input and maintain data in Concerto and Verto systems.
• Identify and pursue available funding sources for school improvements.
• Support education teams on school-led projects and approve grant funding.
• Ensure all work complies with health & safety legislation and equality standards.

Requirements

• Professional qualification in the built environment (e.g. Architect, Building Surveyor, Building Services Engineer).
• Accredited Project Management qualification (e.g. RICS, CIOB, APM).
• Proven experience delivering education/capital projects to tight deadlines.
• Knowledge of DfE funding, public sector processes, and Building Bulletins.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join an established organisation with potential for contract extensions.