Programme Manager - Local Government Reorganisation Programme

About the Role

This position offers an exciting chance to join the Area-Wide Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Programme as a Programme Manager based in Winchester, England. The LGR initiative is a significant governmental effort reshaping local council structures and improving public services across Hampshire and the Solent regions by merging 15 councils into new unitary authorities.

The objective is to simplify governance, enhance service outcomes, strengthen public service delivery, and create financially resilient organisations. This multifaceted transformation involves redesigning services, governance, technology, finance, assets, human resources, and organisational frameworks, all while maintaining uninterrupted service operations throughout the transition.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage one or multiple major themes or clusters of projects within the LGR programme portfolio, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and governance.
• Convert high-level strategic requirements into actionable plans, deliverables, governance documentation, and resource allocation plans.
• Oversee coordination among multiple projects and contributors, actively managing dependencies, sequencing, and readiness requirements.
• Engage stakeholders from various authorities, service areas, and enabling functions to ensure alignment and resolve challenges.
• Manage programme-level risks, issues, and changes, recommending mitigation strategies and escalating matters when necessary.
• Deliver timely, comprehensive reports and decision support materials for sponsors, boards, and senior programme leadership.

Candidate Profile

• Extensive experience in leading complex programmes, workstreams, or significant change initiatives.
• Strong skills in planning, delivery management, risk assessment, and stakeholder engagement.
• Proven ability to lead teams and manage resources in a matrix environment.
• Capability to produce high-quality advisory, reporting, and governance content suitable for senior stakeholders.
• Sound judgment working within politically or operationally sensitive contexts.
• A leadership style that is visible and influential with a strong focus on delivery and aligning varied stakeholders.

Programme Benefits and Environment

• Opportunity to impact and help shape the future of local government in Hampshire and the Solent.
• Work on a large, high-visibility transformation programme alongside senior leaders and experts.
• Develop expertise in programme and organisational change management, governance, and implementation.
• Build networks across local government sectors.
• Receive an attractive benefits package including holiday entitlement, pension scheme, flexible working arrangements, family-friendly policies, interest-free travel loans, and discounts.

Additional Information

Travel within Hampshire may be required. The role is temporary until 31 March 2028, working 37 hours weekly at Elizabeth II Court in Winchester with hybrid working arrangements. The salary ranges from £56,285 to £63,080 annually.

This organisation is committed to safeguarding and promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion in its recruitment practices and is a Disability Confident Employer.