Programme Manager Commissioning

Overview

As Programme Manager you will lead a corporate programme management framework across the Council while directing a major commissioning programme. You will establish robust governance and oversight, working with senior leaders and partner organisations to improve delivery and secure value for money. The role combines strategic direction with hands-on delivery of complex projects, from initiation to mobilisation and contract re-appointment. This high-profile position shapes how services are commissioned and delivered at scale.

Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver a complex programme of strategic commissioning from initiation to contract award and mobilisation
• Establish and maintain programme governance, reporting, and dependency management
• Collaborate with Finance, ICT, Legal, Procurement and operational teams to ensure alignment
• Ensure programmes stay on track through prioritisation, planning and performance management
• Provide strategic advice to senior leadership and Elected Members
• Lead market engagement and support development of commissioning documentation and evaluation processes
• Foster accountability, continuous improvement and successful programme outcomes

Key requirements

• Significant experience in leading large-scale programmes in local government or comparable public sector
• Experience developing programme management frameworks, controls and governance
• Strong stakeholder management with ability to influence senior levels across organisations
• Experience working with procurement, finance and legal teams to achieve compliant outcomes
• Excellent communication skills for reports and recommendations to senior leaders and Members
• Strong understanding of governance, assurance, risk management and decision-making in the public sector
• A Level 7 qualification is desirable; extensive professional experience may be considered in lieu

• leadership and influence
• stakeholder management
• communication
• programme management
• governance and controls
• risk and issue management

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