Programme Manager

Job Description

Job Reference: REQ00000018427
Location: Kendal, Penrith, or Barrow (to be agreed with the successful candidate) with hybrid/home working options
Salary: £63,830 – £66,642 per annum
Contract Type: Temporary until 31 March 2026
Working Hours: 37 hours per week (Full-time)
Closing Date: 15 June 2025
Attachment: Programme Manager – WMF2092e

About the Role

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Westmorland and Furness Council’s Programme Management Office on a temporary basis, supporting the delivery of the Council Plan Annual Plan for 2025/26.

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Programme Manager to lead the Priority Delivery Programme, collaborating with service leaders, elected members, partners, and trade union representatives. This role will involve overseeing the development and delivery of a diverse programme of work, ensuring sustainable, cost-effective, and purposeful implementation that aligns with the goals of our newly formed council.

This is a pivotal role, and we’re looking for someone who is not only strategic and innovative but also confident in constructively challenging current practices. You will adopt an evidence-based approach to realise benefits and drive customer-focused, efficient service improvements.

If you’re motivated by the chance to lead meaningful organisational change in a council that truly values its people, we want to hear from you.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who:

• Inspires and motivates others, supporting a culture of compassion, learning, and continuous improvement.
• Brings significant experience managing large-scale organisational change within complex environments.
• Has a solid understanding of local government services, legislation, and policy.
• Can analyse data, engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels, and communicate ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Is committed to realising tangible benefits through effective programme management.

This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of Westmorland and Furness Council at a transformative time.

What We Offer

By joining Westmorland and Furness Council, you’ll benefit from:

• A generous pension scheme
• Enhanced annual leave entitlement
• Access to staff perks and discount schemes
• A supportive and flexible working environment

Learn more about our employee benefits on our Careers site.

Want to Know More?

For details about the role’s responsibilities and essential criteria, please refer to the Post Specification and Role Profile attached below.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Faye Collis on 07385 554778.

Application and Interview Process

Closing date for applications: 15 June 2025

We offer flexibility in the interview process, including both in-person and virtual options. These will be discussed with shortlisted candidates. If you require any adjustments or have specific access needs, please let us know — we’re here to support you.

Sponsorship Information

Westmorland and Furness Council is a licensed sponsor and can offer Skilled Worker visa sponsorship for eligible roles. Please note that sponsorship cannot be guaranteed for all positions. For more details, visit the official guidance on Skilled Worker visa eligibility.

Commitment to Safer Recruitment

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Diversity and Inclusion

We are proud to be an inclusive employer. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

As a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee interviews to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.

We also offer guaranteed interviews to:

• Armed Forces personnel and veterans
• Young people under 24 who are care experienced

Join us in shaping a better future for Westmorland and Furness — for our communities and for your career.