Programme Manager
External Funding & Contracts
Location: Sunderland
Salary: £37,088 to £38,202
Post Type: Full Time
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Friday 09 January 2026
Reference: 0852-25-R
About Education Partnership North East (EPNE)
At EPNE our ‘purpose’ is our north star. It is what we expect of ourselves every single day and why we ask all staff to keep our purpose front and centre in all that they do.
Our Purpose is to “unlock potential, create opportunities, and transform lives through outstanding education, skills and training”. Rooted in our transformative power, it communicates our work in tackling inequalities, removing barriers, and improving the life chances of the people and communities we serve.
We nurture our very special culture. Our unifying values framework “The actions we take the choices we make - The actions I take the choices I make” represent the character of our college group, and are grounded in the belief that every action, by every individual, contributes to our success. This why we encourage empowered individuals, personal accountability and growth.
Building on our remarkable past, creativity and pioneering spirit, we are moving forward with courage into the future, improving what we do, remaining action-orientated, and innovating to make an exceptional difference for the world we live in. Shaping futures for a better tomorrow, join our changemaking community now.
Please see the following link to our 2024 Ofsted Report, in which EPNE was graded as being Outstanding across all areas - Ofsted-Report-Outstanding
Our Journey & Values
As an employer, we prioritize cultivating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where our staff can thrive and grow. We recognize that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are deeply committed to investing in their professional development and overall wellbeing.
About The Candidate
* We are looking for someone who has experience of working in education and managing projects and /or contracts with an eye for detail and the ability to work at pace in an ever changing environment
Role Responsibilities
* To manage a portfolio of the Group’s externally funded contracts and projects, ensuring delivery is fully compliant with funders’ requirements.
* To lead on the implementation, review and monitoring of the Group’s relevant contracts and projects including subcontractor financial performance.
* To develop, actively manage and sustain strong, trusted partnering relationships with the Group’s subcontractors, maximising the benefits (business opportunities, financial, reputational) to both parties.
Qualifications
* Minimum of a relevant level 5 qualification
Essential Skills & Experience
* At least five years’ experience in the education sector
* Experience of managing education projects and contracts ensuring funding requirements are met in full
What’s in it for you?
Join EPNE and you’ll be part of a culture that prioritizes your development and wellbeing, which is why all employees receive an extensive benefits package.
* Enjoy a generous holiday allowance ranging between 35-48 days per year, plus public holidays - (Excluding Term Time Only contracts)
* Generous family leave and flexible working options (dependent on role)
* LGPS or Teacher Pensions Scheme, (dependent on role 15.7% - 28.68%)
* Access to myLifestyle benefits platform providing retail discounts and more.
* We offer dental, eye care & health cash plans.
* Extensive wellbeing support through a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing.
* Free parking on most campuses.
* Free Gym access available at Bede Campus
Due to the nature of this post, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure Check.
We believe in equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
We are committed to PREVENT and safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.
Please contact Michael McKie michael.mckie@educationpartnershipne.ac.uk should you wish to have an informal chat about the role.
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