Senior Programme Manager

Job Description

Job title: Senior Programme Manager

Location: Remote (UK)

Predominantly remote with travel to client locations where required.

Salary: up to 85000 benefits

Vargo is looking for an experienced Senior Programme Manager to lead complex multi-million-pound service transformation programmes within the UK public sector.

You will provide end-to-end programme leadership from mobilisation and governance design through to delivery oversight and benefits realisation ensuring alignment with GDS standards and best practice digital delivery.

Responsibilities

Lead high-value digital and business transformation programmes across complex environments.
Develop and implement programme governance frameworks aligned with public sector standards and best practice.
Manage delivery through Discovery Alpha Beta and Live phases in accordance with GDS principles.
Define programme objectives deliverables timelines dependencies and benefits tracking measures.
Drive delivery performance ownership and accountability across multiple programme workstreams.

Establish effective governance risk management and reporting processes appropriate to programme scale.
Deliver accurate and concise updates to SROs Boards and governance committees.
Oversee programme risks dependencies and key delivery milestones across the critical path.
Support teams in preparing for GDS assessments assurance reviews and gateway approvals.

Build and maintain strong relationships with SROs senior executives and policy stakeholders.
Provide strategic guidance insight and constructive challenge at senior leadership level.
Ensure digital initiatives align with organisational priorities and operational preparedness.
Navigate and deliver effectively within politically sensitive and complex environments.

Manage programme finances forecasting activities and budget controls.
Oversee supplier relationships commercial contracts and delivery performance.
Drive cost-effectiveness and value throughout the programme lifecycle.

Lead coach and support delivery managers and cross-functional teams.
Encourage a culture of collaboration openness and continuous improvement.
Help clients build long-term internal delivery and programme management capability.

Requirements

Proven experience delivering large-scale complex transformation programmes within the public sector.
Strong understanding of the GDS Service Standard and the end-to-end digital delivery lifecycle including Discovery Alpha Beta and Live phases.
Experience designing and implementing governance and programme delivery structures.
Experience leading programmes through GDS service assessments and assurance processes.
Background in consultancy or providing strategic client-side advisory services.
Experience supporting transformation initiatives within local or central government.
Demonstrated ability to engage and manage senior stakeholders at Board and Executive level.

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