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The Role:
We are seeking a dynamic Project Manager to lead the operational delivery of an exciting new Schools Programme in Spain. This role combines strategic oversight with hands-on project management ensuring successful implementation in line with British Council standards and the requirements of our funding partner.
You will drive the programmes development and delivery supported by the Education Team and leveraging existing networks and partnerships for rapid initiation. The programme will operate within the Schools sector framework and adhere to centrally provided guidelines.
Reporting to Spains Head of Education and collaborating closely with the Global Programme Team you will ensure quality compliance and consistency across all schools-related products and services. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on education in Spain while developing your skills in project delivery and management.
Accountabilities:
The Project Manager is responsible for developing a comprehensive Project Management Plan that covers inception delivery and growth of the programme. They will ensure all activities are delivered in line with this plan including monitoring partner commitments and implementing appropriate controls. A key part of the role involves identifying risks and working with the Senior Responsible Officer to develop mitigation strategies. The Project Manager will oversee internal and client procurement contracting compliance and reporting ensuring all processes meet corporate standards.
Data management is a critical responsibility including timely data entry quality assurance and basic analysis of monitoring data to produce progress reports that satisfy funding requirements. The role also involves conducting programme-specific evaluations identifying indicators and tools for data collection and contributing to the establishment of Monitoring Evaluation and Learning processes across the Spain programme. Collecting collating and coordinating project information will be essential to support decision-making and reporting.
Operational delivery will require the use of digital platforms and technology to enhance efficiency and impact. The Project Manager will integrate equality diversity and inclusion priorities into programme design and delivery while conducting regular quality checks to ensure consistency and effectiveness. Findings will be reported with recommendations for remedial action where necessary.
Building and maintaining strong relationships with project partners suppliers contractors and internal colleagues is central to the role. The Project Manager will manage stakeholder communications strengthen relationships with funders and participating schools and lead small teams of external stakeholders to deliver project outputs. They will also oversee procurement and contract management ensuring suppliers deliver against agreed terms.
Financial accountability includes compliance with British Council financial policies supporting the Head of Education with planning and reporting and monitoring monthly finances to ensure accurate expenditure and adherence to P2P processes. The Project Manager will also follow corporate risk management procedures including safeguarding EDI anti-racism security and anti-fraud measures contributing to monthly and annual compliance checks.
Regular analysis and reporting of operational activity and performance data will support senior managers in making informed decisions. The Project Manager will contribute to effective monitoring and evaluation processes capturing audience participation and feedback. Finally the role requires active commitment to equality diversity and inclusion fostering an inclusive and anti-racist culture mitigating bias and supporting well-being and mental health.
Requirements of the role:
Closing Date: Applications will close at 23:59 on Monday 12th January 2026 UK Time.
You must have the legal right to work in the mentioned region appointed candidate will remain in present country. British Council is not able to support or sponsor work visa applications.
Important Information:
Department:Education
Contract type:Indefinite
Pay band: 6
Location: Spain Madrid
Requirements:
Please note that candidates must have the pre-existing legal right to work in the mentioned regions appointed candidate will remain in present country.
Mobility / relocation / visa sponsoring support will not be provided.
British Council supports working in new ways such as hybrid working subject to full approval by line management and conditional upon our ability to provide the appropriate level of service. This may not be appropriate for all roles but can be explored at interview.
A connected and trusted UK in a more connected and trusted world.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion Statement
We are committed to equality diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community as we believe that a diverse workforce gives added depth to our work. The British Council is a Disability Confident Employer. The Disability Confident scheme helps challenge attitudes increase understanding of disability and ensure staff are drawn from the widest possible pool of talent. We guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the minimum role requirements. We welcome discussions about specific requirements or adjustments to enable participation and engagement in our work and activities.
Safeguarding Statement
The British Council is committed to safeguarding children young people and adults who we work with. We believe that all children and adults everywhere in the world deserve to live in safe environments and have the right to be protected from all forms of abuse maltreatment and exploitation as set out in article 19 UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child) 1989. Appointment to positions where there is direct involvement with vulnerable groups will be dependent on thorough checks being completed in line with legal requirements and with the British Councils Safeguarding policies for Adults and Children.
If you experience any difficulties with submitting your application please email
Required Experience:
IC
The British Council is the United Kingdom’s international organization for cultural relations and educational opportunities. Founded in 1934, we are a UK charity governed by Royal Charter and a UK public body. We work to change lives by creating opportunities for people to learn and d ... View more