JSS are partnered with a higher education institution seeking a Programme Manager / Head of Programme Delivery to provide senior leadership across its Estates & Facilities function. The role is responsible for overseeing the planning, governance, and delivery of the organisation’s capital and strategic estates programmes. Working closely with senior stakeholders across the institution, the postholder will promote a culture of delivery excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement. They will ensure that programmes and projects are delivered efficiently, sustainably, and in alignment with the organisation’s strategic and operational priorities. The role provides leadership and coordination across project teams, consultants, and contractors to ensure consistent standards of governance, performance, and assurance across the capital portfolio. The successful candidate will champion best practice in programme management, stakeholder engagement, and performance reporting, helping establish the Estates function as a centre of excellence in programme delivery.
Essential
* Significant experience delivering large and complex capital programmes within a client-side or consultancy environment.
* Proven experience implementing programme governance, assurance, and performance management frameworks.
* Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels.
* Demonstrated ability to drive cultural and process improvement within multidisciplinary teams.
* Professional qualification in programme or project management (e.g., APM, MSP, PRINCE2) and/or membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., RICS, CIOB, ICE).
* Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate complex information clearly.
* Strong understanding of health, safety, sustainability, and compliance within estates or construction environments.
Desirable
* Experience working within higher education, public sector, or similarly complex organisations.
* Knowledge of building safety regulations and gateway processes related to major capital works.
* Experience leading multidisciplinary teams across complex programmes.
Education and Qualifications
Essential
* Degree-level education or equivalent professional experience.
* Relevant professional qualification in the built environment, project management, construction, or surveying (e.g., MRICS, MCIOB, MAPM).