Strategic Projects Leader, Transformation & Governance

Lancaster University; Lancaster; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Lancaster University is seeking a strategic governance professional to become Head of Strategic Projects, shaping and delivering transformational initiatives as we launch our 2027-32 Institutional Strategy. You will lead a portfolio of strategic projects, foster senior stakeholder partnerships and ensure robust governance, reporting and benefits realisation.

The role requires substantial experience leading organisation-wide transformational programmes in a large institution, with a track record

Qualifications

• Proven track record leading a project or programme management function.
• Significant experience delivering transformational change across large, complex organisations.
• Strong influencing, collaboration and relationship-building with senior stakeholders.
• Ability to establish structures, processes and reporting that provide transparency and support sound decision-making.

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

Governance

Portfolio management

Stakeholder management

Transformation leadership

Strategic thinking

Education

Degree or professional qualification

Job description

Lancaster University is seeking a strategic governance professional to become Head of Strategic Projects, shaping and delivering transformational initiatives as we launch our 2027-32 Institutional Strategy. You will lead a portfolio of strategic projects, foster senior stakeholder partnerships and ensure robust governance, reporting and benefits realisation.

The role requires substantial experience leading organisation-wide transformational programmes in a large institution, with a track record