Senior Programme Manager

Summary

Surrey County Council is in search of a seasoned Interim Senior Programme Manager to spearhead a pivotal strategic review and craft a detailed business case that will guide future service delivery decisions.

This role, reporting to the Associate Director for Children's Social Care Transformation, demands a proactive leader with the ability to work autonomously, navigate uncertainties, engage with stakeholders, and execute complex strategic initiatives swiftly.

The chosen candidate will personally drive the programme forward, collaborating closely with senior leaders and subject matter experts, without the support of a dedicated project team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the comprehensive development of a strategic business case.
• Conduct research, analysis, options appraisal, and provide recommendations.
• Design and execute stakeholder engagement and market testing activities.
• Formulate financial, operational, governance, and implementation strategies.
• Produce high-quality reports, presentations, and briefing documents for senior leaders.
• Identify and manage programme risks, issues, dependencies, and assumptions.
• Establish governance, reporting, and assurance frameworks.
• Cultivate productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Serve as a trusted advisor throughout the review process.
• Work independently to advance progress and achieve outcomes within tight deadlines.
• Support the Council's strategic goals through evidence-based recommendations.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in leading complex programmes, transformation projects, or strategic reviews.
• Strong background in programme and project management.
• Proven track record in developing business cases and conducting options appraisals.
• Experience collaborating with senior stakeholders and executive leadership teams.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Expertise in managing complex risks, dependencies, and governance structures.
• Excellent skills in stakeholder engagement and influence.
• Proficient in report writing, presentations, and communication.
• Ability to work independently and deliver results swiftly.
• Experience in navigating complex organisational environments.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience in Local Government.
• Background in Children's Services, Education, Adult Learning, or Public Sector transformation programmes.
• Programme or project management qualifications such as PRINCE2, MSP, or equivalent.
• Experience in service redesign or alternative delivery model reviews.

What's on Offer?

• £550.00 per day (Umbrella)
• 3-Month Contract
• 36 Hours Per Week
• Hybrid Working
• Bi-Weekly Pay
• Opportunity to lead a high-profile strategic programme.
• Direct interaction with senior leadership and key decision-makers.
• Significant impact on future service delivery arrangements.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Chance to implement meaningful change for Surrey residents.
• Ideal for candidates with experience as a Senior Programme Manager, Transformation Programme Manager, Strategic Programme Manager, Service Improvement Lead, Business Change Manager, Programme Director, Transformation Lead, or Public Sector Programme Manager.