At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformative tech programmes in a major retail environment, enhancing infrastructure and checkout systems.
- Company: Join a leading retail technology firm with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on retail technology while leading high-profile projects.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in technical programme management and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career advancement potential in a fast-paced environment.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: London – Hybrid (3 Days Per Week Onsite)
Start Date: ASAP
Interview Process: 1 Stage
Send CV to: james.robinson@forsythbarnes.com
The Opportunity
We are looking for an experienced Senior Technical Programme Manager to join a major retail technology environment, supporting strategic delivery across both technical infrastructure modernisation and POS/checkout transformation programmes. This role merges two senior vacancies into one critical hire. You will operate across the enterprise technology landscape while also leading high‑profile checkout initiatives delivered through third parties. This is a senior‑level, hands‑on leadership role requiring strong stakeholder engagement, third‑party management, and deep technical programme experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Infrastructure & Technical Modernisation
- Lead programmes across the full technical landscape — from legacy estate through to modern platforms
- Patching systems and operating systems
- Replacing unsupported or end‑of‑life technology
- Store infrastructure upgrades
- Security and resilience improvements
- Manage and prioritise a backlog of infrastructure work
- Work closely with Product leadership (including a Senior Product Manager currently in role until April)
- Be proactive across D&T — identifying stakeholders, removing blockers, and driving progress
- POS / Checkout & Payments Programmes
- Lead delivery of checkout and POS initiatives within a complex retail environment
- Manage key third‑party relationships, including payment providers such as Worldline
- Oversee delivery through external vendors and internal development teams
- Lead critical programmes including AI‑driven fraud detection and change platform proof of concepts
- Ensure systems operate securely and compliantly
- Leadership & Governance
- Line management responsibility (minimum 5 years’ experience managing Programme Managers)
- Manage 3–4 direct reports (external resources)
- Budget forecasting and financial governance
- Comfortable operating in fluid, evolving delivery environments
Senior Technical Programme Manager background
- Familiarity with enterprise technical landscapes (legacy through to modern architecture)
- Experience replacing unsupported technology and driving OS/system upgrades
- Proven third‑party and vendor management
- Retail experience highly desirable and admirable
- Strong governance, reporting, and budget management capability
- Proactive, hands‑on approach with ability to work cross‑functionally
Senior Technical Program Manager employer: Forsyth Barnes
Contact Detail:
Forsyth Barnes Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technical Program Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the retail tech space and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a Senior Technical Programme Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you've managed third-party relationships and led complex programmes in the past. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your hands-on experience! When chatting with potential employers, highlight specific projects where you’ve driven infrastructure modernisation or POS initiatives. This will set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you that Senior Technical Programme Manager position!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Technical Program Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Technical Programme Manager role. Highlight your experience in technical infrastructure modernisation and POS initiatives, as well as any relevant leadership roles you've held.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use metrics where possible to demonstrate how you’ve successfully led programmes or improved processes in previous roles.
Engage with the Job Description: Read the job description carefully and make sure to address the key responsibilities and requirements in your application. This shows us that you understand what we’re looking for and how you fit into the picture.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Forsyth Barnes
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
As a Senior Technical Programme Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your deep understanding of both legacy and modern systems. Brush up on the latest technologies relevant to the role, especially around infrastructure upgrades and POS systems. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed technical transformations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a team and working with various stakeholders. Prepare to share your leadership style and how you've effectively managed teams in the past. Think of instances where you’ve resolved conflicts or motivated your team to achieve project goals, as these stories will highlight your hands-on approach.
✨Understand the Retail Landscape
Since this position is within a retail technology environment, it’s crucial to understand the unique challenges and trends in the industry. Familiarise yourself with current retail technologies, especially around checkout processes and payment systems. Being able to discuss these topics will show your genuine interest and readiness for the role.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Scenarios
Stakeholder management is key in this role, so be prepared to discuss how you’ve engaged with different parties in previous projects. Think about how you’ve identified stakeholders, removed blockers, and driven progress in complex environments. Having concrete examples will help you stand out as a proactive candidate.