Strategic Projects, Transformation & Governance Lead

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

Benefits offered by this job

Generous pension

39 days annual leave

Flexible benefits

Family-friendly policies

Job summary

Lancaster University is seeking a strategic Head of Strategic Projects to shape and deliver transformational programmes as we prepare to launch our new Institutional Strategy for 2027–32. This is a rare opportunity to influence operation-wide change at a leading UK university and ensure projects are clearly identified, prioritised, scoped and governed for successful delivery.

You will lead a portfolio aligned to university priorities, coach and develop a team of project managers, strengthen

Qualifications

• Proven track record leading a project or programme management function.
• Experience delivering transformational change across large, complex organisations.
• Ability to establish structures, processes and reporting for transparency and decision-making.
• Degree or professional qualification, or substantial strategic leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Shape and manage a portfolio of strategic projects aligned to university priorities.
• Coach and develop a team of project and programme managers.
• Strengthen PMO governance, assurance and reporting.
• Oversee delivery plans, KPIs, budgets, milestones and dependencies.
• Provide transparent reporting to senior leaders and governing bodies.
• Build partnerships with senior academic and professional services stakeholders.

Skills

Strategic project leadership

Portfolio management

Governance & reporting

Stakeholder engagement

Change management

Team leadership

Education

Relevant degree or professional qualification

Job description

Lancaster University is seeking a strategic Head of Strategic Projects to shape and deliver transformational programmes as we prepare to launch our new Institutional Strategy for 2027–32. This is a rare opportunity to influence operation-wide change at a leading UK university and ensure projects are clearly identified, prioritised, scoped and governed for successful delivery.

You will lead a portfolio aligned to university priorities, coach and develop a team of project managers, strengthen