Hiring Now: Senior Project Manager Near You – Apply Today!
Your Next Senior Project Manager Job Starts Here – Apply Now!
Senior Project Manager
Job Posted: an hour ago
Salary: £ 48,000 - 58,225 / Annum
Job Type: Temporary
Location: Luton, Bedfordshire
Expire in: a month
Job Description
We're supporting a leading university through a major transformation programme and are seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to join them on a fixed-term contract until July 2026 (with potential to become permanent).
This is an exciting opportunity to help shape how the university manages and delivers change, supporting a major academic restructure, developing new governance and reporting frameworks, and helping to embed project management good practice institution-wide.
The Role
This is a newly created role designed to provide dedicated support to the university's change and transformation agenda.
You'll be working closely with senior leaders on two key priorities:
Supporting the Academic Restructure: hands-on delivery and coordination of consultation activity, engagement, and implementation planning between now and early 2026.
Establishing Programme and PMO Frameworks: developing tools, governance models, and reporting mechanisms to bring structure, visibility, and consistency to change activity across the institution.
This is both a strategic and practical role, ideal for someone who's comfortable rolling their sleeves up to manage activity, while also introducing light-touch structure and governance in a developing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Drive the delivery of major transformational projects across the university, working with initiative owners and stakeholders to implement change at pace.
Support and coordinate the academic restructure consultation and implementation.
Develop and maintain a consolidated programme plan, identifying interdependencies, milestones, and risks.
Create and manage a reporting framework for strategic initiatives and the wider change programme.
Develop a risk register and proactively identify and manage risks and issues.
Build relationships across academic and professional services areas, providing guidance and support as a "critical friend."
Contribute to developing a centralised PMO function and promote consistent project management practices.
Identify opportunities for improvement and propose actions to enhance delivery.
About You
We're looking for a hands-on, adaptable project manager with experience in higher education who understands academic structures and governance. You'll thrive in environments where change is ongoing and processes are still maturing.
Essential Experience:
Significant experience managing complex projects or programmes within higher education.
Knowledge of programme, project, and change management practices (Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid).
Experience managing restructuring or transformation initiatives with organisational impact.
Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills.
Excellent communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced, changing environment.Desirable:
Experience helping to establish or improve PMO structures.
APM or Change Management qualification.Contract Details
Start date: ASAP (early availability will be prioritised).
Contract: Fixed-term to July 2026 (approx. 9 months), with scope to extend or become permanent.
Hybrid model, 1-2 days a week onsite.
Benefits:
6 weeks annual leave + additional closure days at Christmas and Easter
Local Government Pension Scheme
Free on-site gym membership
Culture & Fit
This is a supportive and collaborative environment, but one that's still developing its change maturity. You'll work closely with senior leaders in a small, fast-moving team, so flexibility, pragmatism, and a positive attitude are key.
If you're looking for a role where you can make a visible impact, bring good practice to life, and help build the foundations of a future PMO, this is a fantastic opportunityBefore You Apply
Do not include the following in your job application, CV, or cover letter:
- Bank details.
- National Insurance number.
- Date of birth.
You should not be asked for payment or irrelevant information. If you have concerns about a job advert or employer, seek guidance on how to proceed.
Looking for your next career move? Join a top company hiring Senior Project Manager job near me in Luton, Bedfordshire! This is your chance to work on exciting projects, grow professionally, and enjoy a rewarding career with competitive pay and excellent benefits. Whether you're an experienced professional or looking to take the next step, this role offers the perfect opportunity to enhance your skills and make an impact. Don’t miss out—apply today via Vita CV and take your career to the next level!
© Vita CV: Registered in England and Wales (16187919).