At Star Academies, we are committed to transforming lives through education. We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Head of Programmes and Projects to lead and manage our Projects Unit.
As Head of Programmes and Projects, you will take responsibility for leading our programme and project management function. This includes developing and maintaining a robust framework for programme and project delivery, strengthening organisational capability in this area, and managing the Projects Unit.
You will oversee and drive the successful delivery of multiple programmes and projects running concurrently, working in close partnership with colleagues across all levels of the organisation, including senior leadership, to ensure objectives are achieved on time and to an exceptional standard.
This role is crucial in overseeing a diverse programme of new projects, including the development of new schools, converting and transferring academies, and exploring growth opportunities. If you are passionate about driving change and delivering impactful projects, we want to hear from you!
About Star Central
Star Central, which is based at our head office in Blackburn, Lancashire, provides leadership, strategic direction and support to Star Academies and our schools.
The Star Central team includes experts from a range of professional backgrounds, who work together to provide an outstanding support service to the Star community. We support our schools to provide educational and operational excellence and to cultivate a strong Star community, with the aim of nurturing today’s young people and inspiring tomorrow’s leaders.
Who we’re looking for
As the successful candidate, you will be an experienced programme and project manager with a proven ability to identify and deliver change using project management techniques and methodology. You will have experience working in a PMO, leading multidisciplinary teams, delivering organisational objectives and driving change and improvement. You will be an inclusive and collaborative team leader, with a keen interest in developing both your team and organisational capacity and capability.
This is a role that will require you to travel anywhere within England where new school projects emerge, therefore willingness to travel is essential.
What you will get:
* The opportunity to lead transformative programmes and projects that will significantly enhance the life chances of young people.
* The prospect of working alongside exemplary leaders to deliver impactful projects.
* Excellent CPD and training opportunities through our Star Talent Academy.
* A generous package of rewards, including competitive salaries, pension schemes, generous holiday entitlements, and healthcare cash plans.
About Star Academies
Star Academies is a high-performing multi-academy trust that runs more than 30 primary and secondary schools. We are a values-based organisation that works to improve the life chances of young people in areas of social and economic deprivation to help them succeed at the highest levels of education, employment and the professions. Every single day you’ll be rewarded with the opportunity to shape a young person’s future - our STAR values embody what we believe is needed to succeed.
Professional development is key to our ongoing success, so we continually invest in our employees through our professional development hub, Star Talent Academy. With a wealth of training, mentoring and progression opportunities across a large, growing group of academies, joining our team of leading education experts could propel your career to the next level.
We can also offer you a range of rewards and benefits, including competitive salaries and pension schemes, generous holiday entitlements and healthcare cash plans.
Find out more
Please download the job description and person specification below for further information about the role. For an informal and confidential discussion about the role please contact Dr Kathryn Chorlton, Executive Director People and Projects at Star Central Projects Unit by calling 0330 313 9800.
Note, we currently operate hybrid working arrangements (3 days a week at our head office in Blackburn and two days at home).
Key Dates
Closing Date: Wednesday, 4 February 2026 at midnight.
Interview Date: W/C 9 February 2026.
Proposed Start Date: Negotiable/as soon as possible.
Application Process
To apply for this vacancy please use the 'Apply for job' link below. You should ensure your application form and supporting statement address all elements of the person specification. We will only consider candidates who meet the vast majority of the essential criteria outlined in the person specification.
Our Commitment
Star Academies is committed to safeguarding, safer recruitment and promoting the welfare of pupils. Our comprehensive recruitment and selection processes aim to discourage and screen out unsuitable applicants. Successful candidates are subject to rigorous pre-employment checks.
We are equally committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity. We aim for our workforce to be representative of society and that each employee feels respected and able to give their best. We are committed to providing equality and fairness in our recruitment and employment practices and not to discriminate on any grounds. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination.