At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformative programmes in education and children's services, driving impactful change.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at Connect2Halton, a joint venture focused on community improvement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on sustainability and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in programme management and knowledge of SEND required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are currently seeking an experienced Programme Manager to join our Change Delivery Unit and support a programme of work across Education (SEND Reform) and Children's services.
The successful candidate will:
- Bring strategic insight into education and SEND reform, helping the Council align children's social care transformation with wider changes across education, inclusion and special educational needs and disabilities, while strengthening joint working, improving outcomes and ensuring services are sustainable and affordable.
- Provide senior level children's social care expertise to support and accelerate an established programme of transformation, working alongside existing corporate and service leadership arrangements.
- Bring a proven track record of leading complex change within children's social care and/or education and SEND, with experience of translating strategic priorities into deliverable plans across workforce, service redesign, commissioning, placements, early help and statutory social care services.
- Provide constructive challenge and specialist advice to ensure proposals are evidence-based, operationally credible and capable of improving the quality, consistency and impact of services for children, young people and families.
- Continue and strengthen the focus on long-term sustainability and affordability, helping the Council to identify opportunities to manage demand, reduce reliance on high-cost provision and agency staffing, improve value for money and ensure that financial benefits are realistic and deliverable.
- Work collaboratively with senior leaders, managers, practitioners, partners and programme colleagues to resolve barriers, maintain pace and support effective implementation, while ensuring that safeguarding, statutory duties, workforce capacity and service quality remain central to decision-making.
Duties will include but are not limited to:
- Working with officers and leaders to develop proposals into robust business cases.
- Working closely with Financial Management colleagues to develop financial modelling and track progress against trajectories.
- Developing and overseeing project plans and schedules.
- Coordinating and communicating with stakeholders, team members, and external partners.
- Monitoring and tracking project progress and identifying any potential issues or risks.
- Leading and directing project officers and other project team members to ensure objectives are met on time and savings are achieved.
- Developing and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders and clients to provide support and challenge where appropriate.
- Producing regular, meaningful status updates and reports for a variety of audiences both internal and external, presenting these at meetings where appropriate.
- Highlighting issues and challenges and proactively problem-solving, working in a positive and supportive manner with the senior leaders and officers.
- Reporting on project performance and outcomes in accordance with programme governance and reporting requirements of the wider change governance.
- Ensuring project deliverables meet quality standards and requirements.
- Evaluating project outcomes and providing recommendations for future projects as part of the ongoing programme.
About the Candidate:
- An experienced programme manager with experience of managing complex change programmes.
- Experience and knowledge of SEND.
- Excellent planning and organisational skills to develop programmes of work and manage against them.
- Strong project and budget management skills.
- Experience of preparing board level reports.
- Knowledge and understanding of project management software packages specifically MS Project.
- Strong interpersonal and facilitation skills.
- Experience within environment services would be beneficial but is not essential.
Successful candidate will be required to work one day per week on site. Initially more frequent to support relationship building.
Hours of work: 37 per week.
Connect2Halton is a trading style of Halton & Kent Commercial Services LLP - A joint venture between Halton Borough Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2Halton is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.
Programme Manager - CSC in Widnes employer: Connect2Halton
Connect2Halton is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of its employees, offering a supportive work culture where social workers can thrive. With a focus on professional development and collaboration, staff are encouraged to enhance their skills while making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people transitioning to independence. Located within Halton Borough Council, employees benefit from a strong community ethos and access to various resources that empower them to excel in their roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Manager - CSC in Widnes
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Connect2Halton, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Connect2Halton and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Manager - CSC in Widnes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Connect2Halton and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Connect2Halton
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Connect2Halton, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Connect2Halton.
