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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead large-scale tech programmes that support learners and educators across the UK.
- Company: Join AQA, a leader in education assessments with a commitment to innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and excellent pension contributions.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education while shaping technology-driven change.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in leading complex programmes and strong stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 84200 - 93000 £ per year.
Is this the role you are looking for? If so, read on for more details, and make sure to apply today.
Permanent Manchester: £84,200 - £93,000
Working Arrangements: Hybrid (two days per week in the office)
Introduction
You'll play a pivotal role in delivering large-scale, technology-enabled change that directly supports learners and educators across the UK. As a Programme Manager at AQA, you'll operate at a senior level, shaping and delivering complex programmes that cut across multiple business areas and modern cloud-based platforms. This is a role for someone who enjoys working at pace, influencing at the highest levels, and turning strategic intent into practical, high-quality delivery.
Purpose of the Role
In this role, you'll lead the delivery of major technology programmes within AQA's wider change portfolio. Your work will support the organisation's mission to provide fair, reliable assessments and qualifications for learners of all abilities. You'll be accountable for ensuring programmes deliver clear outcomes, balancing time, cost, and quality, while helping the organisation adapt its business processes to new and evolving technology.
Key Responsibilities
- Leading and delivering large-scale technology-enabled programmes, ensuring outcomes are achieved to agreed timescales, budgets, and quality standards while managing risk, issues, and dependencies.
- Shaping programme direction and solutions, working with senior stakeholders and delivery partners to define scope, priorities, governance, and delivery approaches that align with AQA's strategy.
- Providing senior-facing leadership and oversight, engaging confidently with executive and director-level stakeholders while overseeing integrated teams and supporting the development of project managers through matrix leadership and coaching.
What We Are Looking For
- A strong track record of leading complex, technology-enabled change programmes.
- Excellent programme leadership and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong technical awareness, including IT architecture and integrations.
- Flexible use of agile, hybrid or traditional delivery methods.
- A relevant programme or project management qualification.
What's in It for You
- A 35-hour working week with flexible, hybrid working.
- Exposure to high-profile, business-critical programmes.
- 25 days' annual leave (rising to 30), plus Christmas closure days.
- Excellent pension (up to 11.5% employer contribution).
- Private medical insurance, life assurance and wellbeing benefits.
Diversity and Inclusion Statement
At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED I strategy ensures that everyone-regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background-is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity.
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.
Application Process
Application deadline: Sunday 17th May
Programme Manager employer: AQA
Contact Detail:
AQA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at AQA on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for your application process. Personal connections can give you insights that make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching AQA's recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role, but also in how you can contribute to our mission of providing fair assessments. Tailor your examples to highlight your relevant experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! When discussing your past experiences, frame them as stories that showcase your leadership and problem-solving abilities. We love hearing about how you’ve tackled challenges and delivered results in complex programmes.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in our minds. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for the Programme Manager position.
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Programme Manager role. Highlight your track record in leading technology-enabled change programmes and any relevant qualifications you have.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role at AQA. Mention specific projects you've led and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills: In your application, emphasise your experience in engaging with senior stakeholders. Share examples of how you've influenced decision-making and shaped programme direction in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at AQA
✨Know Your Programmes Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the key programmes AQA is currently running. Familiarise yourself with their technology-enabled change initiatives and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your ability to engage with senior stakeholders. Think of specific instances where you've influenced decision-making or navigated complex relationships, as this will demonstrate your fit for a senior-level role.
✨Be Agile in Your Approach
Since the role requires flexibility in delivery methods, be prepared to discuss your experience with agile, hybrid, or traditional project management approaches. Share how you've adapted your strategies to meet changing needs in past projects.
✨Emphasise Your Leadership Style
Reflect on your leadership style and how it has helped you manage integrated teams. Be ready to talk about how you've coached project managers and fostered collaboration, as this is crucial for the Programme Manager position.