Capital Projects Manager – Cherwell District Council, Banbury

Location: Castle Quay, Banbury

Salary: £66,800.50 – £71,343.00 per annum

Contractual hours: 37

Basis: Full-time, permanent, agile working is supported

Job reference: CDC000412R

The Job:

Ready to make a real impact? We’re looking for a driven and dynamic leader to take charge of our Capital Projects programme, delivering high-profile projects across a diverse property portfolio that directly support our corporate priorities.

You’ll lead from the front, driving complex projects to successful delivery on time, on budget, and to the highest standards. From managing external consultants to energising project teams, you’ll keep momentum high and ensure every milestone is met. You won’t just be leading and managing; the role also gives you the opportunity to deliver your own projects too.

This is a role for a confident influencer. You’ll build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels, navigate competing priorities, and bring people together to achieve results in a fast-paced, high-profile environment.

You’ll stay in control of performance, providing clear, insightful reporting on progress, risks, and finances. With responsibility for capital budgets, you’ll ensure projects remain financially sound, supported by strong cost forecasting and commercial awareness.

As a leader, you’ll inspire and develop your team, bringing together the right skills, driving performance, and ensuring outcomes exceed expectations. And there’s a bigger purpose too. You’ll play a key role in shaping a more sustainable estate, delivering programmes that support our 2030 net zero ambitions.

The Person:

You’ll be degree-qualified in Building/Construction (or equivalent) and a member of a recognised professional body (RIBA, RICS, CIOB or CIAT), with a clear commitment to continuous professional development. A project management qualification (e.g. PRINCE2) and/or management qualification (e.g. CMI) would be an advantage.

You’ll bring significant experience in property project management, with a strong track record of leading multi-disciplinary teams and delivering complex projects across a varied, multi-site portfolio. You’ll be confident operating in high-profile, politically sensitive environments and managing multi-million-pound capital programmes.

Commercially astute, you’ll have a strong grasp of budget management, cost forecasting, and the procurement and oversight of external consultants. Experience in a Corporate Landlord model or programme-based environment would be beneficial.

A natural communicator and leader, you’ll influence, negotiate, and build trusted relationships at all levels, from project teams to senior leaders and elected Members. You will have the ability to explain complex issues in a way that is understood by everyone, especially those without your expert technical knowledge.

Highly organised and delivery-focused, you’ll be comfortable taking the lead, making decisions, and navigating challenges. You’ll manage risk effectively, ensure compliance, and thrive in a fast-paced environment where adaptability and results matter.

The Benefits:

• The Council is an equal opportunities employer.
• You’ll be part of a progressive, values-led council that embraces innovation and collaboration.
• In return, Cherwell offer a competitive package and a supportive culture that invests in your professional growth and wellbeing, including:
• A generous annual leave entitlement of 35 days (plus bank holidays)
• Opportunity to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (Including generous Employer Contribution and the ability to transfer your private pension into the scheme)
• EV Salary sacrifice scheme
• Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme
• £25 eye test reimbursement every two years
• Incremental pay award (awarded annually in April after one years’ service)
• Town centre office close to the station, canal and all amenities

Cherwell District Council is committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults.