At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a transformative programme to reshape local government services and improve outcomes for residents.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking Upper Tier Authority making a real impact in local governance.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hybrid working, and potential for contract extension.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to influence and drive meaningful change.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of a significant transformation that enhances community services.
- Qualifications: Experience in local government programmes and strong stakeholder engagement skills required.
Step into a pivotal leadership role within a large, forward-thinking Upper Tier Authority delivering a high-profile Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). This is a once in a generation transformation that will reshape how services are delivered, bringing together multiple councils into a single, modern, unitary organisation. This ambitious proposal is focused on creating a simpler, more efficient model that improves outcomes for residents while strengthening financial sustainability and operational resilience.
As the programme now moves from proposal into delivery, there is a strong demand for Programme Managers who have already been involved in recent LGR activity, particularly during the early-stage conversations and proposal development phases within other local authorities.
This is a senior Programme Manager role leading one of the core workstreams within a complex LGR programme. You will be responsible for translating strategic intent into structured delivery, ensuring your workstream progresses from planning through to implementation in line with programme objectives. Operating within a multi-council environment, you will manage complexity across different organisations, systems and ways of working, ensuring alignment and consistency while navigating local variation.
You will play a critical role in identifying risks, resolving cross-cutting challenges and ensuring dependencies across workstreams are understood and managed effectively. You will also contribute to programme-level decision-making, providing clear updates, options and recommendations to senior leadership, ensuring that delivery remains on track and aligned to the broader transformation vision.
What you'll need to succeed:
- Significant experience leading complex programmes or workstreams within local government.
- Recent, hands-on involvement in Local Government Reorganisation activity.
- Confidence in engaging senior stakeholders, influencing decisions and holding teams to account.
- Strong risk management capability, structured programme planning and excellent communication skills.
- Ability to remain calm and effective in complex, fast-moving environments.
- Local government experience is a strict prerequisite for this role.
What you'll get in return:
This role offers the opportunity to play a central part in delivering one of the most significant transformation programmes in the region. Alongside a competitive day rate, you will benefit from flexible working and strong potential for contract extension as the programme evolves.
Programme Manager - Local Government Transformation in Reading employer: Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited
Join a dynamic and innovative Upper Tier Authority in Reading, where you will lead transformative initiatives that significantly impact local governance. With a strong emphasis on employee growth and flexible hybrid working arrangements, this role not only offers competitive remuneration but also the chance to be part of a groundbreaking project that enhances community services and operational efficiency. Experience a collaborative work culture that values your expertise and fosters professional development as you navigate the complexities of local government transformation.
Contact Details:
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Manager - Local Government Transformation in Reading
✨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 Programme Manager - Local Government Transformation in Reading
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.
