Job Introduction
Are you an experienced programme and project leader with a strong background in governance, strategic delivery, and NEC4 contract management?
We have an exciting opportunity for a Head of Programmes & Projects to join our team at i2020, Belfast. This is a high‑profile leadership role responsible for driving the strategic direction, governance, and successful delivery of a diverse multi‑year programme of capital, lifecycle, refurbishment, and improvement projects.
This role is ideal for a senior professional who thrives in complex, highly regulated environments and has the ability to balance long‑term strategic objectives with urgent operational priorities.
As the Head of Programmes & Projects, you will provide strategic leadership across all programmes and projects delivered within the contract, ensuring every initiative is clearly defined, properly governed, fully compliant, and benefits‑led.
You will ensure that the programme of work aligns with client strategic outcomes, statutory obligations, Northern Ireland legislation, and NEC4 contract conditions, while maintaining robust governance, commercial oversight, and stakeholder engagement.
This is a pivotal leadership role working closely with senior client stakeholders, consultants, contractors, and internal teams to ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards.
What you’ll do
Leadership & Governance
* Lead the Programmes & Projects function, setting strategic direction and performance standards
* Establish and maintain NEC4‑compliant governance frameworks and reporting structures
* Provide senior programme, project, and commercial advice to the Contract Director and Client
* Ensure robust audit trails, transparent decision‑making, and clear separation of duties
* Maintain compliance with client standards, legislation, and best practice
Programme Planning & Delivery
* Define and manage the multi‑year Programme(s) of Work
* Lead annual and long‑term programme planning, prioritisation, sequencing, and budget alignment
* Maintain the full projects register and programme intelligence
* Oversee business cases, project dossiers, master plans, and delivery strategies
* Ensure alignment with estate strategies, asset intelligence, and operational requirements
Project Oversight
* Direct and oversee all projects delivered under Project Services
* Ensure all projects follow agreed methodologies from design through to closure
* Manage integrated consultant teams across design, cost, engineering, and specialist disciplines
* Rapidly mobilise urgent and “shovel‑ready” projects in a compliant manner
NEC4 Contract & Commercial Management
* Ensure compliance with NEC4 processes including:
o early warnings
o compensation events
o programme submissions
o change control
* Support forecasting, cost control, final accounts, and contract administration
* Ensure value for money and procurement compliance
* Work closely with commercial and contract management teams
Performance, Reporting & Risk
* Lead programme‑wide performance monitoring and reporting
* Produce dashboards, forecasts, assurance submissions, and governance reportsOversee risk and issue management with early escalation and mitigation
* Support internal and external audits
* Maintain accurate, decision‑ready data across financials, risks, benefits, and dependencies
Stakeholder Management & Benefits Realisation
* Build strong relationships with public sector stakeholders across Northern Ireland
* Lead governance meetings, workshops, and project reviews
* Ensure measurable benefits are tracked and delivered
* Lead lessons learned and continuous improvement activities
What you bring
We’re looking for a strategic and commercially astute leader with significant experience managing complex programmes and projects in regulated, multi‑stakeholder environments.
* Degree (or equivalent) in:
o Project Management
o Construction Management
o Engineering
o Architecture
o Surveying
o or a related discipline
* Chartered membership of APM, RICS, CIOB, ICE, RIBA, or equivalent
* Strong NEC3 / NEC4 contract management experience
* 5+ years’ senior leadership experience managing complex programmes across multi‑site estates
* Proven experience delivering multi‑year programmes of work
* Strong financial and commercial management expertise
* Experience leading consultants, design teams, and supply chain partners
Key Skills
* Strategic leadership
* Governance and programme control
* Strong commercial acumen
* Excellent stakeholder engagement skills
* Analytical and data‑led decision making
* Strong delivery focus and quality standards
What we offer
Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you, you’ll act with purpose, and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way.
* Mental health & wellbeing support
* Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
* 24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
* Discounts for you & family
* Financial tools & retirement plan
* Cycle to Work & Paid volunteering day
Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!
Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we are in receipt of a high number of applications.
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