Description
Shape the Future of Technology Delivery in Retail Banking
initial 6 month contract, based in Edinburgh with 1-2 days per week onsite
We are seeking an experienced Programme Portfolio Manager to play a pivotal leadership role within a growing technology organisation supporting a major retail banking environment. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced portfolio leader who enjoys building capability, creating structure, and influencing strategic decisions. Working directly alongside senior leadership, you will help define and establish a new operating model, build high-performing teams, and provide trusted advisory support across a broad portfolio of technology and transformation initiatives.
The Role
As Programme Portfolio Manager, you will act as a strategic partner and trusted advisor to senior leadership, helping to establish and grow the portfolio management function.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Designing, shaping and implementing an effective portfolio operating model that supports ongoing growth and delivery excellence.
- Establishing governance frameworks, portfolio controls and reporting structures.
- Leading workforce planning, recruitment and onboarding activities to build and scale the capability required for future growth.
- Acting as a trusted right-hand partner to the portfolio leadership team, providing guidance, challenge and strategic insight.
- Supporting and coaching programme and delivery leads, helping them navigate complex organisational and delivery challenges.
- Driving alignment across technology, business and operational stakeholders.
- Ensuring portfolio priorities remain focused on delivering measurable business outcomes.
- Creating an environment of collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement.
About You
We're looking for a highly credible leader who combines strong programme management expertise with exceptional stakeholder engagement skills. You'll likely bring:
You will likely bring:
- Significant experience leading complex programme portfolios within Retail Banking or Financial Services Technology environments.
- A proven track record of establishing or transforming PMO, portfolio or operating model functions.
- Experience building, scaling and leading high-performing delivery teams.
- Strong programme governance, planning and organisational management capabilities.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence audiences from delivery teams through to executive stakeholders.
- Exceptional relationship-building skills and the ability to create trust quickly.
- A calm, measured and methodical approach when managing complexity and change.
- Strong problem-solving ability with a focus on delivering practical solutions.
- A collaborative leadership style that brings people on the journey and drives engagement across diverse stakeholder groups.