LGR Lead Project Manager - Uttlesford District Council in Chelmsford

Essex County Council are delighted to be working in partnership with Uttlesford District Council to recruit for the role of LGR Lead Project Manager. We are seeking to fill this position through a secondment opportunity in the first instance. Applications are welcomed from employees of local authorities seeking development opportunities.

This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in one of the most significant local government transformation programmes in the country. West Essex is embarking on an ambitious journey to establish a new Unitary Authority, creating a modern, resilient and community-focused council that will serve residents for generations to come. As part of the Programme Management Office (PMO), you will be at the heart of this historic change, helping to shape the future of local government across West Essex.

These are exciting secondment opportunities for motivated and talented professionals who want to make a visible impact, work at pace and gain experience in a complex, high-profile transformation programme.

As a Lead Project Manager, you will take ownership of major workstreams within the West Essex LGR Programme, helping to design and deliver the future organisation from the ground up. This is a rare opportunity to influence strategic decision-making and lead transformational projects that will shape services, governance and outcomes for thousands of residents.

Working across multiple councils, senior leadership teams and external partners, you will provide expert project management leadership, ensuring programmes are delivered effectively, risks are managed proactively and critical milestones are achieved.

What you'll be doing:

• Providing comprehensive programme and project support across multiple workstreams.
• Supporting programme reporting, performance monitoring and assurance activities.
• Working closely with senior officers, programme leads and elected members.
• Tracking actions and milestones to ensure delivery remains on schedule.
• Ensuring programme information is accurate, accessible and supports informed decision-making.

What we're looking for:

• Experience supporting projects, programmes or organisational change initiatives.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Confidence managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong IT skills, including experience of managing programme documentation, reports and presentations.
• A proactive and solution-focused approach.
• The ability to build positive working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.
• An interest in transformation, continuous improvement and public service delivery.
• Excellent planning, organisation and problem-solving abilities.
• The ability to navigate ambiguity and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.
• Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills.
• A collaborative, resilient and proactive approach.

Why join us?

The creation of a new unitary authority represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of local government in West Essex. You will work alongside experienced programme professionals, senior leaders and partner organisations, gaining invaluable experience within a high-profile transformation programme. This role offers excellent professional development opportunities and the chance to contribute directly to a programme that will have a lasting impact on local communities.

If you thrive on challenge, enjoy working collaboratively and want your work to have real impact, we would love to hear from you.

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to play a key role in one of the largest local government transformation programmes in England.
• Exposure to senior leadership and strategic decision-making.
• The chance to develop and expand your programme and transformation experience.
• Flexible working arrangements where operationally possible.
• A collaborative and supportive working environment.
• The opportunity to make a genuine and lasting difference to residents and communities across West Essex.

Interested?

For an informal discussion about either role, please contact Nicola Roberts – nroberts@uttlesford.gov.uk or Paula MaGinnis – pmaginnis@eppingforestdc.gov.uk. For a copy of the full role profile, please contact thea.towers@essex.gov.uk. To find out more and apply, visit Essex portal details. Closing date for completed applications: Wednesday 2 September 2026.

Be part of history. Help shape the future of local government in West Essex.