Programme Manager – Children’s Services

Programme Manager – Families First Programme

£500 per day | Inside IR35 | Initial 6 Month Contract
Hybrid Working | South West England

We are recruiting for an experienced Programme Manager to support the delivery of a major Families First transformation programme within a Local Authority.

This is an opportunity to play a key role in delivering reforms designed to improve outcomes for children, young people and families. Working across Children’s Services and wider council directorates, you will coordinate programme workstreams, manage governance, oversee risks and dependencies, and support the successful delivery of transformational change.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate multiple programme workstreams and associated projects.
• Manage programme governance, reporting, risks, issues and dependencies.
• Support and advise the Senior Responsible Officer (SRO) on programme progress and delivery.
• Facilitate programme boards, steering groups and stakeholder meetings.
• Produce high quality reports, updates and presentations for senior leadership.
• Drive collaboration across Children’s Services and wider council departments.
• Ensure programme delivery aligns with organisational transformation objectives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders across all levels of the organisation.
• Support the implementation of robust programme management methodologies and controls.
• Monitor programme benefits, outcomes and delivery milestones.

Essential Experience

• Proven experience delivering complex transformation programmes within Local Government.
• Strong Programme Management experience within Children’s Services, Family Help, Family Hubs, Early Help or Social Care environments.
• Experience managing governance, reporting, risks, issues and interdependencies.
• Demonstrable experience delivering organisational change and service transformation.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence senior leaders and operational teams.
• Experience working within multi agency environments and delivering programmes involving multiple stakeholders.
• Knowledge of programme management methodologies such as MSP or PRINCE2.

Desirable Experience

• Experience supporting Families First reforms, Family Hubs or Children’s Services transformation programmes.
• MSP Practitioner, PRINCE2 Practitioner or equivalent qualification.
• Knowledge of Children’s Services legislation and statutory requirements.