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- Tasks: Lead and manage PMO functions for transformative projects in higher education.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on strategic business transformation across multiple universities.
- Benefits: Enjoy fully remote work with flexible hours and a rolling contract.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in higher education while developing your project management skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in PMO roles within higher education and strong stakeholder engagement skills required.
- Other info: This role is outside IR35, offering you more flexibility in your contract.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Higher Education PMO – Strategic Business Transformation
Contract: 3 months rolling (Outside IR35)
Location: Remote (UK-based candidates)
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced PMO professional with a strong track record in higher education environments to support large-scale, strategic business transformation programmes. This is a client-facing role, requiring someone who can engage effectively with senior stakeholders, academics, and cross-functional teams across multiple universities.
You will play a pivotal role in establishing and embedding PMO best practices, providing governance, and ensuring programme objectives are delivered on time and aligned with strategic goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the PMO function for major business transformation initiatives.
- Drive strategic planning and oversee the delivery roadmap across multiple workstreams.
- Establish governance frameworks, reporting mechanisms, and performance tracking tools.
- Work closely with senior leadership teams, programme directors, and stakeholders to align delivery with institutional priorities.
- Provide insight, analysis, and recommendations to support decision-making at executive level.
- Ensure risks, dependencies, and issues are actively managed and mitigated.
Key Skills & Experience
- Proven PMO experience within higher education (multiple universities preferred).
- Strong background in strategic planning and large-scale business transformation.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and client-facing skills, able to influence at all levels.
- In-depth understanding of governance, reporting, and programme controls.
- Strong communication, analytical, and organisational skills.
Contract Details
- Duration: 3 months rolling
- IR35: Outside IR35
- Working Arrangement: Fully remote
Project Management Officer employer: Empiric
Contact Detail:
Empiric Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Management Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and trends in higher education PMO. Understanding the unique landscape of multiple universities will help you engage more effectively with stakeholders during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the higher education sector, especially those involved in PMO roles. Attend relevant webinars or online events to build connections and gain insights that could be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed PMO functions in previous roles. Highlight your experience with governance frameworks and performance tracking tools, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's values and mission. Tailoring your conversation to align with our goals can demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and how you can contribute to our strategic business transformation initiatives.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Management Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your PMO experience specifically within higher education. Emphasise your involvement in strategic business transformation initiatives and any relevant governance frameworks you've established.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Showcase your ability to engage with senior stakeholders and your experience in managing multiple workstreams effectively.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your skills in stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and programme controls. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you have successfully influenced decision-making at an executive level.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a PMO role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Empiric
✨Showcase Your PMO Experience
Make sure to highlight your previous experience in project management offices, especially within higher education. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've led and how they align with the strategic goals of the institutions you've worked with.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role requires strong stakeholder engagement, practice articulating how you have successfully influenced senior stakeholders in past roles. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and build relationships across various teams.
✨Demonstrate Governance Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with governance frameworks and reporting mechanisms relevant to PMOs. Be ready to discuss how you've established or improved these processes in previous positions, as this will show your understanding of programme controls.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage risks and dependencies. Think of examples where you've successfully navigated challenges in project delivery and how you ensured alignment with strategic objectives.