Strategic Projects Director — Transformation Lead

Lancaster University; Lancashire; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Lancaster University is seeking a strategic and forward-thinking governance professional to lead a portfolio of high-impact strategic projects. You will shape delivery, coach a team of programme managers and strengthen governance and assurance frameworks to support effective delivery.

Ideal candidates will have substantial experience leading complex, organisation-wide programmes in a large institution, and hold a relevant degree or professional qualification.

Qualifications

• Proven track record leading a project or programme management function.
• Significant experience delivering transformational change across large, complex organisations.
• Strong influencing and relationship-building skills with senior stakeholders.
• Ability to establish effective structures, processes and reporting for transparency and sound decision-making.
• Relevant degree or professional qualification, or substantial strategic leadership experience.

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 relevant University governing bodies.
• Build effective partnerships across senior academic and professional services stakeholders.

Skills

Portfolio management

Stakeholder engagement

Programme governance

Change management

Leadership

Education

Degree or professional qualification

Job description

Lancaster University is seeking a strategic and forward-thinking governance professional to lead a portfolio of high-impact strategic projects. You will shape delivery, coach a team of programme managers and strengthen governance and assurance frameworks to support effective delivery.

Ideal candidates will have substantial experience leading complex, organisation-wide programmes in a large institution, and hold a relevant degree or professional qualification.