At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major transport projects, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.
- Company: Liverpool City Council, committed to sustainable transport and community development.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on economic growth and climate change solutions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the city's transport infrastructure and sustainability goals.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and experience in project management required.
Job Purpose
To act as the Programme Director for Transport for City Regions (TCR) programmes and projects, ensuring the efficient delivery of key projects and programmes of work, being part of the TCR portfolio. The TCR portfolio from 2027/32 will be upwards of £168M, and this role will take ownership and key management duties on large scale, high value, complex and high priority programmes and projects with Programme values ranging from approximately £5 million to £40 million. The role is to ensure, on behalf of the council, best value, cost effectiveness, and managing and developing priority and high‑profile schemes within this major capital programme, adhering to THP governance, the Council’s Corporate Governance and reporting, and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA) governance and reporting.
The Programme Director will provide leadership to ensure that through delivery of this key capital programme of works, Liverpool City Council meets its aims, core values, and business objectives as set out in the City Plan. The Programme Director will engage and work with key stakeholders and other key partners at senior management/director level to develop and sustain the ability of LCC, directly or through strategic partners, to deliver to programme and budget, and to associated Grant Funding Agreements (GFAs). The post holder will join the TCR team to help deliver a complex capital programme of investment in highways, active travel, and public transport improvements, helping the council and the Region meet its economic growth, connectivity, and climate change targets. The Programme Director will be responsible for developing permanent capability and staff development to enable the council to plan and resource across capital programmes for successful delivery on behalf of the council through this Portfolio and wider across THP.
Working in partnership with senior internal and external stakeholders, the role will work in collaboration with LCRCA and other key stakeholders to foster a commercially focused, inclusive service provision, to deliver for the businesses and communities in the city.
Directly Responsible For
- Delivery teams on assigned priority programmes and projects, including Programme and Project Leads.
- Multi-disciplinary teams of permanent staff and consultancy/contract support services procured by the council, each programme/project having teams of upwards of 20 persons across all disciplines.
- Management and delivery of multiple programmes and projects including project management, commercial management, scheduling, risk management, design delivery from concept to completion, tendering for construction, and site delivery.
- Project initiation documentation, procurements, and contracts required for successful delivery of assigned programmes and projects.
Directly Responsible To
TCR Board, comprising TCR Portfolio Director and other Board members including THP Heads of Service, Director, and representation from City Development and LCRCA. Ownership of regular reporting to TCR Board, presenting project status of various projects through project managers, ensuring compliance with LCC and LCRCA Gateways for governance, delivery, and budget.
Main Areas of Responsibility
Key Responsibilities
- Accountable for high priority and key projects from TCR Portfolio (£168 million, 2027–2032).
- Responsible for programmes of works and associated projects delivered on time, cost, and quality, engaging key internal and external stakeholders.
- Develop, manage, and influence schedules and cost plans for projects and programmes.
- Develop, coach, and line manage junior staff, supporting HR and Improvement Delivery Team with learning and development.
Supervision and Management Responsibility
- Plan meaningful one‑to‑one conversations, quality appraisals, and workforce development for direct reports.
- Assess staff performance and set target levels relative to TCR portfolio.
- Create positive learning environment via delegation and mentoring.
- Participate in staff training, disciplinary standards, and development opportunities to improve service delivery.
Budget and Financial Responsibility
- Accountable for management and control of delegated capital and revenue budgets (TCR projects upwards of £15 million per annum).
- Ensure value for money and compliance with standing orders and financial regulations.
- Report financial issues to TCR Board, Portfolio Director, or Director of THP, and maintain financial records.
- Use performance and financial benchmarking data to identify improvement opportunities.
Social Value Responsibility
Drive social value through all activities, ensuring social, economic, and environmental benefits for council, residents, and communities.
Physical Demands of the Job
Undertake site visits, including during adverse weather conditions.
Corporate Responsibility
- Contribute to the Council Plan.
- Promote excellent customer service internally and externally.
- Commit to customer excellence through feedback and continuous improvement.
- Make the council a great place to work, engaging in team meetings, training, and managing performance.
- Support equal opportunities and non‑discriminatory practices.
Person Specification
Qualification and Training
- Essential: Degree in relevant academic subject or equivalent professional experience in construction/transport sectors. Good knowledge of Business Case development, e.g., public sector funding in the UK. Qualification/experience in project management (APM PMQ, PRINCE2, MSP, NEC4 ECC Accreditation or equivalent).
- Desirable: Continued professional development in management. Registered with Engineering Council and Chartered (e.g., ICE, CIHT, IStructE, RICS, APM). Full UK Driving Licence.
Experience
- Essential: Leading large complex programmes, especially in Transport/infrastructure sectors, within tight budgets and timelines. Commissioning and understanding quantitative assessments (QCRA, QSRA). Preparing and presenting complex information to senior managers and stakeholders. Commissioning, briefing, and monitoring external consultants/service providers. Presenting issues to senior managers, elected members, and associated bodies.
- Desirable: Preparing contract documentation, procurement, contract administration, and financial control of civil/highway engineering projects.
Skills / Abilities
- Essential: Excellent project/programme management and direction skills. Demonstrable commercial awareness, including contract management. Comprehensive understanding of professional standards, legislation, and codes relevant to physical regeneration and development.
- Desirable: IT literate: MS Project, Office, and other relevant software. Exercise effective judgment for planning, funding opportunities, and service improvement. Understanding professional/technical standards, legislation, and codes relevant to highways, infrastructure, and development.
Commitment
- Commitment to highest levels of professional conduct and continued professional development. Ensure effective implementation of Council policies and achievement of objectives, including financial and budget targets.
OR102381 – Transport for City Regions (TCR) Programme Director in Liverpool employer: Carrington Blake Recruitment
Liverpool City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation in the transport sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, the council provides numerous opportunities for professional growth while ensuring a supportive culture that values inclusivity and community engagement. Working from the iconic Cunard Building, employees benefit from a central location that enhances connectivity and access to a vibrant city life.
Contact Detail:
Carrington Blake Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land OR102381 – Transport for City Regions (TCR) Programme Director in Liverpool
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the transport and infrastructure sectors. Attend industry events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your experience with large-scale projects and your ability to manage budgets effectively. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in delivering complex programmes.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research Liverpool City Council and their TCR initiatives thoroughly. Understand their goals and challenges, and think about how your background can help them achieve their objectives. Tailor your responses to show you’re the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got all the latest job listings, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications and follow up if needed. Let’s land that dream job together!
We think you need these skills to ace OR102381 – Transport for City Regions (TCR) Programme Director in Liverpool
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Programme Director. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Programme Director, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, especially in transport or infrastructure sectors.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key achievements stand out. This will help us quickly see why you're a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people and helps us keep track of all applications efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington Blake Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the Transport for City Regions (TCR) programme. Brush up on key projects, budget management, and stakeholder engagement strategies. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Programme Director, you’ll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully led teams or managed complex projects. Highlight how you developed junior staff and fostered a positive working environment.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with Liverpool City Council’s goals and the broader context of the TCR portfolio. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with their objectives, especially regarding economic growth and climate change targets. This shows you’re not just focused on the role but also on contributing to the council's mission.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the TCR programme, the team dynamics, and future challenges. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
