Strategic Project Manager

London Fields Design School; London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A creative education institution in East London is looking for a Project Manager to lead initiatives across two growing brands. The ideal candidate will have proven project management experience, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. This role offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and significant career growth opportunities while allowing you to work closely with the Founder on impactful projects.

Benefits

Performance bonus

Annual pay review

30 days annual leave + bank holidays

Qualifications

• Proven experience in project management or operations.
• Ability to juggle multiple priorities effectively.
• Based in/near London, with availability to be in the office 4-5 days a week.

Responsibilities

• Lead initiatives across departments and manage key relationships.
• Oversee day-to-day operations and manage timelines.
• Take full ownership of projects and drive high-level initiatives.

Skills

Project management

Organisational skills

People management

Problem-solving

Sales and marketing

Tools

Adobe

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Job description

Overview

London Fields Design School — Based in East London’s creative heart, we offer flexible, career-focused digital design training delivered by industry professionals. Our students graduate with up to 20 software certifications, strong portfolios, mentoring, and hands-on placements within the creative community.

London Software Training — Established in 2012, we provide practical, hands-on training in industry-standard design software, both in-person and online. We support learners with live sessions, portfolio guidance, free refreshers, and tailored support to help them succeed in creative careers.

The Role

We’re seeking a capable and driven Project Manager to work closely with the Founder across two dynamic and fast-growing education brands: London Fields Design School and London Software Training.

This role blends project management and strategic execution. You’ll be responsible for leading initiatives across departments while acting as a trusted right hand to the Founder—helping turn vision into actionable plans, managing key relationships and keeping operations aligned with company goals.

It’s a perfect opportunity for someone who thrives in a creative, high-growth environment and wants to make a tangible impact every day.

Your Role as a Strategic Project Manager

• Act as the Founder’s key partner in executing business vision across both brands
• Lead projects in all areas of the business (operations, marketing, sales, creative, academic, partnerships)
• Own and drive high-level projects with minimal supervision
• Pre-empt roadblocks and solve problems proactively across departments
• Communicate confidently and professionally on behalf of the Founder when required
• Bring structure, accountability and clarity to fast-moving initiatives
• Help develop and implement new ideas, services, systems and partnerships

Project and Operations Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations across both businesses
• Manage timelines of employees and delivery across multiple teams and initiatives
• Ensure each employee is thriving and working to their best potential
• Scope includes: Marketing, Sales, Branding & Communications, Customer Service & Experience, Academic & Course Development, Partnerships & External Relations, People & Culture

Project Initiation

• Analyse existing projects to identify areas for improvement and opportunities for upgrades
• Consult with the Founder and develop and implement new projects designed to enhance functional performance and income
• Engage with and utilise staff members to achieve agreed project outcomes

Hands-on Work in Partnerships

• Identify potential partners and create a target list
• Initiate contact with identified partners to arrange meetings
• Finalize mutually beneficial partnerships that contribute to business growth
• Operate autonomously, offering contributions beyond the scope of the sales team

Independent Leadership

• Take full ownership of your projects and operate autonomously without needing direct guidance from the Founder
• Ensure smooth execution of all operations, stepping in to cover tasks during the Founder’s absence

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in project management or operations — ideally in sales, marketing, education, or creative industries
• Excellent organisational and people management skills
• A calm, solutions-focused mindset with the ability to juggle multiple priorities
• Comfortable leading initiatives independently while working closely with the Founder
• Based in/near London, with the ability to be in our Hackney studio 4-5 days per week

Desirable Experience

• Creative Industries – Understanding of design, media, creative workflows, or tools like Adobe, AutoCAD or SketchUp
• Education and Training – Experience running programs, managing tutors, or supporting student engagement
• Sales and Business Development – Background in business growth, partnerships, or B2B engagement
• Marketing and Communications – Strong grasp of content strategy, brand storytelling and digital marketing

Package

• Location: East London (Hackney) – 4 Days in Office / 1 Day Remote Option
• A central leadership role in two exciting and growing education businesses
• Salary: Competitive, based on experience
• Performance bonus
• Annual performance-related pay review
• 30 days annual leave + bank holidays
• 1-year contract with potential for renewal or expansion
• The chance to work alongside the Founder on meaningful, high-impact projects
• An opportunity to help shape the future of design education