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- Tasks: Lead a transformative programme to reshape local government services for 1.2 million residents.
- Company: Hertfordshire councils, driving significant change in local governance.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape the future of local government and make a lasting impact.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of a pivotal transformation that affects an entire county.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in leading large-scale programmes and navigating complex systems.
- Other info: A unique chance to influence local governance and engage with key stakeholders.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Hertfordshire’s councils are embarking on one of the most significant transformations in the county’s history through Local Government Reorganisation. This programme will reshape how local government is organised and how services are delivered for more than 1.2 million residents.
As Programme Director, you will lead this complex and high-profile programme, working with chief executives, elected members and partners across the system to guide the county through this pivotal period of change. Reporting to Hertfordshire’s Chief Executives through the Chief Executive Coordinating Group, you will lead the design and delivery of the transition programme, establishing the governance, programme architecture and delivery structures required to move from the current arrangements to new unitary authorities.
You will bring together leaders from across the eleven councils, building shared purpose and ensuring the programme progresses with clarity, discipline and confidence. This is a role that combines strategic leadership with practical delivery. You will oversee a multi-million-pound programme, establish and lead the Programme Delivery Office, and coordinate a wide range of workstreams covering governance, finance, workforce, systems and service continuity.
Ensuring a safe and legally robust transition will be central to the role, while also laying the foundations for the new councils to begin strongly from day one. The Programme Director will operate at the centre of a highly visible and politically sensitive programme. You will play a critical role in building trust across the system, supporting clear and transparent communication with staff, partners and communities, and ensuring the programme maintains momentum while protecting the continuity of essential public services.
For an experienced programme leader, this is a rare opportunity to shape change at a countywide scale. The leadership you provide will help determine how confidently Hertfordshire moves through this transition and how effectively the new councils are positioned for the future.
About You
We are looking for an experienced and credible programme leader who can bring clarity, structure and calm judgement to a complex system-wide transformation. You will have a strong track record of leading large-scale programmes or organisational change, ideally within local government or another politically accountable environment, and will be comfortable operating in complex, high-profile and multi-stakeholder settings.
You will bring the strategic perspective needed to see the wider system while maintaining a strong focus on delivery. This means translating ambition into clear programme architecture, building robust governance and ensuring progress is maintained across multiple workstreams. Your leadership will help bring together organisations with different perspectives and priorities, creating the conditions for collaboration and shared progress.
Political awareness and stakeholder engagement will be central to your success. You will have the confidence and credibility to work with chief executives, elected members and senior partners, providing clear advice while maintaining trust and neutrality. Your approach will be diplomatic, measured and resilient, with the ability to maintain momentum through uncertainty and complexity.
You will also be an inclusive and collaborative leader who understands that programmes of this scale are ultimately delivered by people. Your leadership will help build confidence across the system, provide clarity during periods of change, and ensure partners and communities remain informed and engaged throughout the transition.
Above all, you will recognise the importance of this moment for Hertfordshire. This is a rare opportunity to help shape the future of local government across the county, ensuring the transition is delivered safely, effectively and with a lasting positive impact for residents and communities.
For a confidential conversation, contact Greg Hayes (07423 243415) or Clare Connor (0161 408 0703) at Tile Hill.
Programme Director (LGR Transition) in England employer: Hertfordshire County Council
Contact Detail:
Hertfordshire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Director (LGR Transition) in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in local government or related fields. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the councils involved in the LGR Transition. Understand their challenges and priorities, and think about how your experience can help address them. Tailor your responses to show you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the specific needs of Hertfordshire.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss examples of how you've successfully led large-scale programmes or transformations. Highlight your ability to build trust and collaborate with diverse stakeholders, as this will resonate well with the role's requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. So, get your application in and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Director (LGR Transition) in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Programme Director role. Highlight your experience in leading large-scale programmes and how it aligns with the transformation Hertfordshire is undergoing.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see your strategic leadership abilities shine through. Share examples of how you've successfully navigated complex, multi-stakeholder environments and built trust among diverse groups.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language to convey your ideas and ensure your points are easy to follow. This will help us understand your vision for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape the future of local government in Hertfordshire.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hertfordshire County Council
✨Understand the Transformation
Make sure you grasp the significance of the Local Government Reorganisation in Hertfordshire. Familiarise yourself with how this transformation will impact local services and the residents. Being able to discuss the programme's goals and challenges will show your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare to share specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully led large-scale programmes or organisational changes. Highlight your ability to navigate complex, multi-stakeholder environments and how you’ve built trust and collaboration among diverse teams.
✨Demonstrate Political Awareness
Given the politically sensitive nature of this role, be ready to discuss how you've engaged with senior stakeholders in previous positions. Show that you understand the importance of diplomacy and maintaining neutrality while providing clear advice to chief executives and elected members.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. This role requires effective communication with various partners and communities, so being able to convey your ideas succinctly will be crucial. Prepare for potential questions about how you would maintain momentum and clarity during periods of change.