IT (Core Systems) Project Manager – 12 month FTC with view to permanent
Our client is a PE‑backed, professional services group evolving their group functions across a growing portfolio of businesses. They have multiple businesses in the East Midlands and in London. The role requires working in one of their offices at least 2 days per week. It is a 12‑month fixed‑term contract with the possibility of a permanent position.
About the role
The Project Manager will be accountable for the success of all projects under their supervision. This includes the planning, execution, and delivery of complex IT and business transformation projects – with a focus on replacing legacy core systems such as finance, HR, and operational platforms. The Project Manager will coordinate resources, manage risks, and ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget in accordance with business priorities.
Key responsibilities
* Define and create project plans for project, portfolio, and product prioritisation and implementation
* Lead planning and execution of major system implementation projects, including Core Finance and HRIS replacements
* Evaluate trade‑offs between project size and complexity, cost, urgency, risk, and stakeholder value
* Partner with business sponsors to define success metrics and return on investment (ROI) criteria
* Build, lead, and coach multiple project teams throughout project lifecycles
* Facilitate operational checkpoints, steering meetings, and project reviews
* Assess and resolve all high‑priority project risks as they are encountered
* Ensure adherence to project methodology compliance standards
* Monitor and control project budgets, timelines, and quality standardsProvide regular updates to stakeholders and senior leadership on project status
* Support business readiness and change management efforts
Person Specification
Qualifications & Experience
* Bachelor's degree in Business, IT, or related field
* PMI, PRINCE2, PMP, or Agile PM certification (preferred)
* 5+ years’ experience managing IT and business transformation projectsProven track record of delivering core system replacements in mid‑to‑large organisations
* Experience in professional services or accountancy sector (desirable)
* Excellent project management, organisation, and team collaboration skills
* Outstanding written, verbal, and presentation skills
* Strong facilitation, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement ability
* Ability to anticipate risks and devise responsive solutions in real time
* Resilience and comfort with ambiguity
* Strong team leadership skills
* Knowledge of business operations, objectives, and enterprise goals
Technical Skills
* Deep understanding of software development lifecycles (Agile, SCRUM, Waterfall)
* Proficient in project management tools (MS Project, Visio, Jira, Clarity)
* Familiar with budgeting, forecasting, and resource management practices
Core Competencies
* Delivery Focus
* Stakeholder Management
* Problem Solving
* Communication
* Leadership
* Change Management
Seniority level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Project Management
Industries
Financial Services, Accounting, and Professional Services
#J-18808-Ljbffr