At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to manage one of the UK's largest infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join a government-backed initiative transforming rail connectivity in the North.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous pension, flexible working, and up to 30 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Shape the economic future and improve lives through impactful project management.
- Qualifications: Solid project management experience and leadership skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative environment focused on continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Do you have the desire to work on one of the UK’s largest infrastructure projects? Have you got a solid background in project management? If so, we’d love to hear from you!
On the 14 January 2026, the Secretary of State and the Chancellor formally agreed and announced Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) as a high profile £45 billion programme to drive economic growth in the North by delivering new routes and major upgrades to rail links across the Pennines, North West and Yorkshire. The programme is a priority commitment for the Department and this Government. The NPR Programme will see significant improvements made to the rail network over three phases, improving connectivity to key cities in the north of England, including Liverpool, Warrington, Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield and York. As one of the UK’s largest infrastructure projects, NPR is about far more than building railways – it is about driving growth and improving lives. If you would like to help shape the economic future of the current and deliver a project which will change lives, then please read on.
Benefits
- Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary.
- 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave), plus 8 bank holidays and a privilege day for the King’s birthday.
- Flexible working options where we encourage a great work-life balance.
The postholder will lead an enthusiastic team of project‑management professionals who work closely with Network Rail and HS2 Ltd to deliver best‑in‑class project management and integration. This includes overseeing all governance, budget management, risk management, ensuring that we embed lessons learned from other projects and programmes and managing the business support function. On the integration side, the role involves sponsorship of the NPR Integration Authority, to build a baseline and manage decision making and dependencies accordingly.
Responsibilities
- Lead the PMO and Integration team.
- Lead the NPR programme through all audit and scrutiny activity.
- Lead on all governance for the programme.
- Oversee effective management of risks and embed lessons learned.
- Oversee the budget for the programme.
- Ensure dependencies are well managed.
- Sponsor all NPR integration work.
- Drive continuous improvement in all processes.
- Be an active and enthusiastic senior leader.
Great line management is important to us as an organisation, and we will equip and support line managers to develop the skills they need. We aim to empower line managers to create teams where people can flourish and deliver excellent outcomes for the public.
Head of PMO and Integration (Northern Powerhouse Rail) in Leeds employer: Government Recruitment Service
Contact Detail:
Government Recruitment Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of PMO and Integration (Northern Powerhouse Rail) in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks who work at companies you’re interested in. A friendly chat can open doors!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand the Northern Powerhouse Rail initiative inside out, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We want to see your passion for making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! When you get the chance to speak about your past experiences, highlight how you've led teams and managed projects successfully. We love seeing candidates who can inspire and drive results.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’ve got loads of resources to help you along the way, so make the most of them!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of PMO and Integration (Northern Powerhouse Rail) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of PMO and Integration role. Highlight your project management experience and any relevant achievements that align with the Northern Powerhouse Rail programme. We want to see how your skills can drive growth and improve lives!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for infrastructure projects and how you can contribute to the NPR programme. We love seeing enthusiasm, so let your personality come through while keeping it professional.
Showcase Leadership Skills: As a senior leader, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities in your application. Share examples of how you've led teams, managed budgets, and driven continuous improvement in past roles. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and empower others!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Recruitment Service
✨Know Your Project Management Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your project management principles and methodologies. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led projects in the past, especially in large-scale infrastructure settings. Highlight specific examples that showcase your ability to manage budgets, risks, and governance.
✨Understand the Northern Powerhouse Rail Vision
Familiarise yourself with the goals and impact of the Northern Powerhouse Rail programme. Show your passion for improving connectivity and driving economic growth in the North. This will demonstrate your alignment with the organisation's mission and your commitment to making a difference.
✨Prepare for Governance and Integration Questions
Expect questions around governance structures and integration processes. Think about how you would sponsor the NPR Integration Authority and manage dependencies. Prepare to discuss how you’ve embedded lessons learned from previous projects into your work.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a senior leader, it’s crucial to convey your leadership style and how you empower your team. Be ready to share examples of how you've developed your team members and fostered a culture of continuous improvement. This will highlight your fit for leading an enthusiastic team of project-management professionals.