Strategic Programme Manager | Transformation & Improvement

Lancashire County Council; Preston; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading local authority in the UK is seeking an experienced Strategic Programme Manager. This role involves leading transformation initiatives, managing budgets, and driving innovation across multiple departments. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and experience in delivering complex programmes. This position offers a competitive salary and extensive benefits, aiming to enhance public services in the region.

Benefits

Generous benefits package

Local Government Pension Scheme

26 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Employee discount scheme

Qualifications

• Significant experience at senior management level, delivering large and complex programmes.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, resources, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of Agile, Waterfall, and business change approaches.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of major transformation programmes.
• Plan and design programmes, proactively monitor progress, and resolve issues.
• Develop governance frameworks and manage risks, issues, and dependencies.
• Oversee budgets and ensure benefits are realized.
• Drive innovation and embed business change management.

Skills

Leadership skills

Stakeholder engagement

Budget management

Programme management methodologies

Education

Professional qualification in programme/project management

Job description

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Job Description

Salary £55,612 - £60,147 per annum | Permanent, Full time, 37 hours per week | Preston

Are you an experienced programme leader ready to drive transformation and innovation across one of the UK's largest local authorities? Join our Transformation and Improvement team at County Hall and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of public services in Lancashire.

As a Strategic Programme Manager, you will:

• Lead the development and delivery of major transformation and improvement programmes across multiple directorates.
• Plan and design programmes, proactively monitor progress, and resolve issues to keep delivery on track.
• Develop and implement governance frameworks and manage risks, issues, and dependencies.
• Oversee budgets, monitor expenditure, and ensure benefits are realized.
• Manage programme teams and coordinate resources to deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Drive innovation and embed business change management to deliver sustainable improvements.

What we're looking for:

• Professional or academic qualification in programme/project management or equivalent experience.
• Significant experience at senior management level, delivering large and complex programmes.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, resources, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of programme and project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall) and business change approaches.

If you're passionate about leading change, driving innovation, and delivering better outcomes for communities, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now and help us deliver smarter, more efficient services for Lancashire-where your work truly matters.

Closing Date: 04/01/2026 Interview Date: w/c 12/01/2026

Application review is ongoing, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this exciting opportunity.

Why join us?

By joining Lancashire County Council, you can shape the career path that is right for you, with opportunities to gain personal and professional qualifications, coaching, and mentoring. Lancashire County Council truly is the place where you can have the career you've always wanted.

In return for your passion and expertise, we offer a generous benefits package, which includes:

• A competitive salary and Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions.
• A great holiday entitlement of 26 days annual leave, which increases with length of service. You will also be entitled to 8 Bank Holidays, 2 additional statutory Bank Holidays, and have the option to buy additional leave each year.
• Our staff discount scheme in partnership with Vivup, allowing you to access discounts with a range of UK retailers, saving on everything from weekly food shops to white goods and cars.
• Access to fantastic development and career opportunities.

Job Description & Person Specification