At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead tech projects that enhance education and assessment experiences for learners.
- Company: Join AQA, the UK's largest provider of academic qualifications.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for career development.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with a focus on diversity and support for all individuals.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education while developing your project management skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing technology or business change projects is essential.
The predicted salary is between 54300 - 60700 £ per year.
Contract type: 12 month fixed term.
Location: Manchester.
Salary: £54,300 to £60,700.
Working arrangements: hybrid working – 2 days a week in office.
At AQA, the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK, we advance education and support our people. As a Project Manager you will lead technology projects that improve how learners experience education and assessment. You’ll drive change, collaborate across IT and business teams, and ensure projects are delivered on time, to the required quality and with clear impact on learners.
Key Responsibilities- Lead project delivery end to end, ensuring milestones are achieved and outcomes are delivered.
- Manage risks, issues and dependencies while keeping stakeholders aligned and informed.
- Work across IT and operational teams to drive progress and hold delivery to agreed plans.
- Produce project components such as business cases, project plans and PIDs as required.
- Plan and manage the full project lifecycle, from initiation to embedding within delivery teams.
- Identify and mitigate risks and issues promptly, escalating when necessary.
- Support operations teams and stakeholders in process review and continuous improvement activities.
- Ensure projects are delivered within agreed budgets and meet time, cost and quality requirements.
- Confidence leading change and working with a wide range of people across an organisation.
- Experience delivering technology or business change projects.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence and provide constructive challenge.
- Confidence working with senior stakeholders and building effective relationships.
- Ability to analyse information and make decisions in complex situations.
- A resilient and calm approach to managing competing priorities.
- Opportunity to deliver meaningful change and develop your experience in a supportive environment.
- Flexibility: Hybrid working – 2 days a week in office – supporting work‑life balance.
- Supportive and inclusive working environment with exposure to senior leaders and cross‑organisation teams.
- Opportunities to develop your skills and progress your career within AQA.
- Work on projects that have a real impact across the organisation.
AQA is committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity, promotes equity and inclusion, and values all individuals regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation or background. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity.
Reasonable adjustmentsIf you require reasonable adjustments for the application, interview or prospective job, please contact Faye Harrison at fharrison@aqa.org.uk.
Project Manager in Manchester employer: AQA Recruiting
At AQA, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values diversity and promotes professional growth. As a Project Manager in Manchester, you will have the opportunity to lead impactful technology projects while enjoying flexible hybrid working arrangements that support your work-life balance. With access to senior leaders and cross-organisational teams, you'll be empowered to develop your skills and make a meaningful difference in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Project Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to project management. We suggest using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help you showcase your experience effectively!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research AQA and their projects! Understanding their mission and values will not only help you tailor your responses but also show your genuine interest in the role. We want to see that you’re excited about making a difference in education.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us. Let’s get you started on this journey together!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Project Manager role. Highlight your experience with technology projects and how you've led teams to success. We want to see how you can drive change and improve learner experiences!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be working with various stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication skills. Use examples in your application that show how you've influenced decisions or managed relationships effectively. We love a good story!
Be Clear About Your Achievements:When detailing your past projects, focus on the outcomes and impact of your work. Use metrics where possible to quantify your success. We’re all about delivering results, so let us know how you’ve made a difference!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and you’ll be set!
How to prepare for a job interview at AQA Recruiting
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the projects you've managed in the past. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the impact your projects had on stakeholders. This will show your potential employer that you can lead projects effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Project Manager, communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've influenced stakeholders or navigated complex situations. Practise articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, as this will demonstrate your ability to engage with various teams and senior leaders.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific project scenarios, such as managing risks or dealing with competing priorities. Think through your approach to these situations beforehand, and be ready to explain your thought process and decision-making skills.
✨Emphasise Your Adaptability
Highlight your experience with hybrid working and how you've successfully managed projects in a flexible environment. Discuss how you adapt to changes and ensure project delivery remains on track, which is crucial for a role that involves collaboration across IT and operational teams.
