Programme Manager (Digital Transformation) - Bedford in Luton

We are partnering with a client who is looking for a Programme Manager to join a major technology development programme as it approaches operational launch. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who can bring structure, pace and control to a complex software delivery. The programme is well progressed, with the focus now on coordinating the technical and operational activity required to deliver a successful release.

The successful candidate will work closely with developers, product and engineering teams, playing a central role in driving delivery, managing risk and supporting key decisions across the full lifecycle.

The role

• You will take ownership of day-to-day programme delivery across development workstreams, ensuring all are aligned and progressing toward a controlled and successful go-live.
• The environment is fast-paced and technically focused, with multiple dependencies across software, infrastructure and operational readiness. Success will depend on your ability to maintain visibility, challenge constructively, and keep delivery on track.
• This role requires a Programme Manager who is comfortable operating in a hands-on capacity - working closely with technical teams while maintaining a clear view of the wider programme landscape.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate delivery across a complex technology development programme.
• Own planning, forecasting, dependencies, risks, issues and reporting.
• Work closely with developers, product and engineering teams to track progress and maintain alignment.
• Provide structure and challenge across the full delivery lifecycle, including software, infrastructure, environments, testing and release readiness.
• Identify delivery risks early and drive mitigation plans.
• Support senior stakeholder and board-level decision-making through clear escalation and insight.
• Act as a key link between delivery teams and broader release readiness workstreams.
• Support budget forecasting and delivery planning where required.
• Ensure the programme progresses to go-live in a controlled, pragmatic and delivery-focused way.

What we’re looking for

We are interested in Programme Managers with a strong track record of delivering complex technology programmes, particularly those involving end-to-end development through to release. You will bring:

• Proven experience leading digital or technology delivery programmes end-to-end.
• A strong understanding of the full technical delivery lifecycle, beyond software build alone.
• Experience working closely with developers and engineering teams, with the credibility to challenge and guide.
• The ability to manage multiple workstreams, dependencies and stakeholders.
• Experience operating within structured delivery methodologies (Agile, Waterfall or hybrid).
• Strong risk, dependency and programme control capability.
• Clear communication skills and confidence engaging in complex stakeholder environments.
• Experience in large-scale or regulated environments is advantageous. Familiarity with service design and technologies such as Azure, Dynamics or Power Platform would be beneficial, but not essential.

Why this role?

This is a rare opportunity to join a programme at a critical stage, where the focus shifts from building technology to ensuring it is fully ready for release. You will play a key role in helping a complex development programme transition into live operation - working closely with those delivering the technology and shaping how release is executed in practice.

If this is of interest, apply today and one of the team will be in touch to discuss further.