At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting tech and business transformation programmes at a global news organisation.
- Company: Join the Financial Times, a leader in quality journalism and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, medical cover, gym memberships, and a flexible hybrid working model.
- Other info: Embrace continuous improvement and career growth opportunities in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while collaborating with diverse experts in a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing large-scale programmes and strong stakeholder management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
The Financial Times is one of the world’s leading news organisations, globally recognised for its authority, integrity and accuracy, with a mission to deliver quality information and services worldwide.
At the FT, curiosity thrives and ambitious thinking is rewarded. Here, you’re given the chance to reach millions, create work that matters and deliver impartial journalism in a polarised world.
In our warm, collaborative culture, you’ll connect with a diverse community of experts who support your growth, career aspirations and wellbeing.
Your future at the FT will be filled with opportunities that challenge and inspire you. With no fixed path, you’ll discover new skills and forge a career that can take you anywhere.
Build a newsworthy career at the FT.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
We believe in the power of unique perspectives and want all voices in our organisation to be heard, respected and valued. A supportive workplace is one where employees feel they can be themselves and operate to their full potential. We are committed to removing barriers for everyone, with a focus on addressing those faced by underrepresented groups.
The Role
We're looking for an experienced Programme Manager to lead the delivery of complex technology and business transformation programmes across Product & Technology.
Reporting into the Portfolio & Programmes team, you'll be responsible for end-to-end programme leadership, bringing together multiple workstreams, delivery teams, suppliers and business stakeholders to deliver strategic outcomes. You'll ensure programmes are effectively governed, aligned to organisational priorities and delivered against agreed objectives, benefits and success measures.
Working across Product, Engineering, Data, Cyber Security, Infrastructure, Architecture and business functions, you'll combine strong programme leadership with technical understanding to enable informed decision-making, manage delivery risk and drive successful business adoption and value realisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead complex technology and business transformation programmes from mobilisation through to implementation, adoption and benefits realisation.
- Develop and maintain integrated programme plans across multiple workstreams, delivery teams and third‑party partners.
- Establish effective programme governance, reporting and decision‑making processes that support successful delivery.
- Manage programme budgets, forecasts and financial performance, ensuring investment is aligned with strategic objectives.
- Partner with Product, Engineering, Architecture, Infrastructure, Security and business teams to manage technical dependencies and delivery risks.
- Oversee third‑party suppliers and systems integrators, ensuring contractual commitments, milestones and service levels are achieved.
- Lead programme‑level risk, issue, dependency and change management, implementing recovery plans where required.
- Build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders, providing clear programme updates, recommendations and delivery insights.
- Support organisational readiness, business change and operational transition to ensure successful adoption and long‑term value.
- Drive continuous improvement in programme delivery practices while promoting collaboration, accountability and delivery excellence.
Required Skills and Experience
- Significant experience leading large‑scale technology or business transformation programmes.
- Proven track record of managing multiple related projects, workstreams and cross‑functional delivery teams.
- Strong programme governance, planning, financial management and delivery expertise.
- Experience delivering within Agile, hybrid and traditional project environments.
- Broad understanding of digital products, cloud technologies, enterprise applications, infrastructure, cyber security, SaaS platforms or data technologies.
- Experience managing third‑party suppliers, systems integrators and multi‑vendor delivery environments.
- Strong commercial awareness, including budget management, business case development and benefits realisation.
- Excellent stakeholder management, communication and influencing skills, including presenting to executive leadership and governance boards.
- Professional programme management certification such as MSP, PgMP, PfMP or equivalent.
- Experience within media, publishing, subscription or technology‑led organisations.
- Experience delivering enterprise transformation, technology modernisation or operating model change programmes.
- Familiarity with enterprise architecture, cloud platforms, cyber security frameworks and modern software delivery practices.
What's in it for You?
Our benefits vary by location but we are committed to providing best‑in‑class perks across all our offices. These include generous annual leave, medical cover, inclusive parental leave packages, subsidised gym memberships and opportunities to give back to the community. Full details of our benefits are available here .
We’ve embraced a 50% hybrid working model (averaging two to three days onsite) that fosters trust and remote adaptability while encouraging in‑person camaraderie and peer learning. Additionally, we are open to accommodating specific flexible working pattern requests for all roles where feasible.
Accessibility
We are a disability confident employer and Valuable 500 signatory.
Further Information
Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments or personalisation as part of the application process or to enable you to attend an interview. If you would like to discuss your requirements or have any questions, please email talent@ft.com and a member of our team will be happy to help.
At the FT, we embrace innovation and the use of technology and appreciate that individuals may leverage AI tools as part of their job application process. Whilst we are happy for you to use AI to assist with your application, it is essential that all information provided is authentic and accurately represents your skills, experience, and qualifications.
Candidates should be aware that the use of AI throughout the application process may be monitored to ensure a fair and transparent hiring process for all.
Please beware of fraudulent job postings and offers claiming to be from the Financial Times. All legitimate opportunities will direct you to apply through the official Financial Times careers site, and the FT will never ask for financial information, payments, or referrals to third parties during the hiring process. If you have any concerns about the legitimacy of a job posting or suspect any scam activity, please contact talent@ft.com .
Programme Manager employer: Financial Times
The Financial Times is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where curiosity and ambition are celebrated. With opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to diversity, employees can thrive in a culture that values unique perspectives and fosters collaboration. The flexibility of remote or hybrid working arrangements from Belfast or London, combined with a comprehensive benefits package, makes the FT an attractive choice for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers in the legal field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Manager
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Programme Manager at Financial Times!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Financial Times or be willing to refer you for that Programme Manager position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Financial Times who’s on the lookout for their next Programme Manager star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Programme Manager role at Financial Times!
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Financial Times. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Financial Times
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Financial Times. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
