We have an exciting and unique opportunity for a Senior Programme Manager – Prosperity & Devolution to join our Prosperity and Devolution Team here at Wokingham Borough Council, on a full-time, 12-month fixed term contract.
Berkshire’s Local Authorities, working alongside Oxfordshire councils, are progressing plans to establish a Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA) – creating stronger local decision-making and better outcomes for communities and businesses. We are now seeking an experienced Senior Programme Manager to help turn this vision into reality.
As the Senior Programme Manager, you will play a lead role in one of the most ambitious devolution programmes in the Thames Valley. You will lead the coordination of complex, high-profile programmes that span multiple councils and partners, bringing structure, momentum and clarity to a fast-moving and politically important agenda.
Employed by Wokingham Borough Council as the accountable body, you’ll work closely with Senior Leaders, Members and Government, shaping strategy, managing risk, and ensuring strong delivery across key workstreams including infrastructure, housing, economic development and public service reform.
⭐Staff Benefits⭐
Not only is this an excellent opportunity to work on a county-wide, significant programme, but it’s a fantastic time to join our team. You will receive an extensive range of employee benefits including:
⭐Generous Annual Leave – 31 days annual leave (rising by 5 days with 5 years of continued local government service), plus bank holidays
⭐Local Government Pension Scheme
⭐GP Helpline - Available 7 days a week
⭐Employee Assistance Programme – Including a 24/7 Your Care Helpline
⭐Free Eye Tests and Flu Vaccines
⭐Free Onsite Gym - Located at Shute End Offices, Wokingham
⭐Local & Lifestyle Discounts - Save on shopping, entertainment, dining out & more
⭐Move through Menopause Course
⭐Sports & Social Group Activities - Including running, football, cricket & more
⭐Learning & Development Opportunities
⭐Employee Networks
⭐And more!
We’re looking for a confident programme leader with a strong track record of delivering complex change within a local or central government setting. You will be collaborative, politically astute and motivated by making a real difference at scale.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Leading programme planning, coordination and governance for MSA and prosperity workstreams
2. Developing and maintaining robust programme plans, risk management and reporting arrangements
3. Supporting the development of business cases and evidence to support proposals to central government
4. Managing stakeholder engagement with councils, partners, businesses, the voluntary sector and residents
5. Acting as a principal advisor to the Devolution Director and Berkshire Prosperity Board Programme Director
6. Supporting and coordinating a virtual, multi-authority team and commissioned support
7. Manage the programme's budget and monitor expenditure and costs against the MSA milestones and forming an MSA.
Candidate Requirements:
8. PRINCE2 (or equivalent) project/programme management qualification and continuous professional development
9. Substantial experience of leading large, complex programmes and portfolios
10. Strong understanding of devolution, public service reform and local government governance
11. Proven ability to operate at senior level and influence across political and organisational boundaries
12. Excellent communication, analytical and problem-solving skills
Our Area:
Wokingham Borough is set in the heart of Berkshire with excellent transport links to Reading and central London. Our area comprises of a vibrant and historical market town, attractive villages, and miles of beautiful countryside.
We’re home to a range of high performing schools, a host of international businesses and an incredible community. The borough has a strong local economy with accelerated growth, a range of excellent public facilities and low levels of crime, offering an exceptional quality of life.
Click the link below and Apply Today!
Alternatively, for more information or to arrange an informal discussion about the role, please contact Paul Patterson, Programme Director – Devolution via email: (Strictly no agencies).