At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a major transformation programme in local government, ensuring successful delivery and governance.
- Company: Join a leading local authority undergoing significant change and investment in transformation.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, potential for contract extension, and influence over organisational direction.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with access to senior decision-makers and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of local services and drive meaningful change in a complex environment.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in public sector leadership, governance, and transformation programmes.
The predicted salary is between 59576 - 70089 £ per year.
Step into a major leadership role at a large, upper tier local authority that is in the midst of one of the most ambitious and complex transformation agendas in the sector. With major programmes including a high profile Local Government Reorganisation shaping the future of services, funding and organisational identity, this is a council undergoing real, system wide change. The organisation is investing heavily in strengthening its transformation and delivery capability. As part of this, it is now seeking an exceptional Head of PMO who can bring clarity, authority and discipline to a vast and evolving programme portfolio. Local Government experience is an absolute must.
This is not a traditional PMO role; this is the senior leadership position responsible for holding an entire organisation to account for the successful delivery of its biggest programme. You will become the council's central source of truth for LGR programme performance, governance strength and delivery confidence. You will have the authority to challenge Programme Directors and senior leaders on direction, decisions and delivery discipline across the whole portfolio, including the most politically sensitive and high risk programmes. You will provide senior level insight, foresight and strategic challenge, delivering portfolio reporting that not only informs leadership but influences decisive action. When programmes need re-scoping, reprioritising or even stopping entirely, your voice will be the one that shapes that conversation.
You will also lead the evolution of the organisation's PPM capability, designing and embedding portfolio frameworks, dashboards and assurance models that drive maturity across every directorate. Alongside this, you will lead a talented PMO team and work closely with Members, SROs and corporate leadership to ensure transformation activity is aligned, realistic and future proof. This is a role for someone who thrives in complexity, enjoys operating at pace and relishes the opportunity to reshape how a major authority delivers its most critical change.
What you'll need to succeed:
- You will bring a powerful blend of senior level portfolio leadership, political awareness and real strategic presence.
- You will have deep expertise in governance, assurance, risk and financial planning and the confidence to challenge and influence at the highest levels.
- You will be adept at simplifying complexity, turning data and performance insights into compelling narratives that drive action.
- You will also be an experienced leader of senior specialists, capable of elevating capability and embedding consistency in all environments.
- Experience working within large, complex public sector or political environments is essential, and exposure to major transformation or reorganisation programmes will be a significant advantage.
What you'll get in return:
This contract places you at the centre of one of the most consequential transformation portfolios in the region. You will gain unparalleled access to senior decision making, real influence over organisational direction and a platform to drive meaningful, lasting change. You'll join a collaborative, forward thinking environment with a competitive day rate and significant potential for extension as the transformation portfolio evolves.
What you need to do now:
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Head of PMO - Local Government Reorganisation employer: Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited
Join a leading local authority in Oxford that is at the forefront of transformative change within the public sector. As an employer, we offer a dynamic work culture that values collaboration and innovation, providing you with the opportunity to influence significant organisational shifts while working alongside senior leaders. With competitive remuneration and a commitment to professional development, this role not only allows you to shape the future of local governance but also positions you within a supportive environment that fosters growth and impactful leadership.
Contact Details:
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of PMO - Local Government Reorganisation
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of PMO - Local Government Reorganisation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
