At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Savings and Improvement Programme, driving efficiency and savings across the House of Commons.
- Company: Join the House of Commons, a vibrant hub of UK democracy with over 3,000 dedicated employees.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, a generous pension, flexible working, and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in Parliament while developing your leadership skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in complex programmes, strategic planning, and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role for 2 years, with potential for extension; hybrid working available.
The predicted salary is between 82000 - 103425 £ per year.
Positions: 1
Band / Grade: SCS1
Salary: £82,000 - £103,425 per annum
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Contract Length: Fixed term for 2 years, with the possibility of an extension
Working Pattern: Full Time
Location: Hybrid (on-site and remote)
Closing Date: 23rd June 2025 at 23:55
Interview Date(s): Interviews will most likely take place on the 2nd July 2025
The House of Commons is a unique and exciting place to work right at the heart of the UK's thriving democratic system. Behind the scenes, the House of Commons Service is made up of more than 3,000 employees who support and facilitate the smooth day-to-day running of the House. They provide professional services to Members of Parliament, their staff, and the wider parliamentary community.
Staff Benefits:
- 30 days’ annual leave (increasing to 35 days after first full leave year).
- Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 28.97%.
- Access to training and development.
- Flexible working.
- Interest-free season ticket loan and bicycle loan.
The Finance, Portfolio and Performance team (FPP) is critical to supporting a thriving Parliamentary democracy. We play a leading role in delivering the House of Commons’ Strategy and corporate priorities through financial planning, analysing performance, and supporting the delivery of projects and programmes across Parliament.
The Role:
We are looking for a Programme Director to support the SRO and Executive Sponsor in delivering the Savings and Improvement Programme (SIP). The aim of the SIP is to seek savings and efficiencies in the House of Commons Administration from Financial Year 2026/27. The SIP will:
- Prioritise functions and areas where efficiencies should be sought, including cross-cutting areas of expenditure and areas of duplication.
- Determine efficiencies targets for teams.
- Identify areas to invest to save.
- Monitor progress against targets and report to the Commons Executive Board (CEB) and Member-led bodies as required.
- Remain aware of pressures on Government and the wider public sector and align the House’s approach where possible.
Some of the responsibilities for this role include:
- Provide visible and effective leadership of the SIP.
- Create a plan for delivery of the SIP across the expected three-year delivery window.
- Form collaborative relationships with key stakeholders; ensuring stakeholder interests are identified and addressed throughout the programme.
- Build and maintain a strong delivery-focused project team.
Skills And Experience:
To be successful in this role you will demonstrate:
- Leadership: Proven success in leading complex programmes involving multiple stakeholders. Strong advocate for inclusive, values-led leadership that builds staff trust. Experienced in managing both direct and indirect teams.
- Strategic Thinking, Planning & Organisation: Skilled in strategic planning (financial and non-financial), resource prioritisation, and delivering value for money. Deep understanding of the strategic challenges within the House Administration. Track record of maintaining strategic focus and delivering complex change initiatives.
- Analysing & Decision Making: Capable of analysing complex, evolving situations and proposing innovative, well-considered solutions. Demonstrates sound political and organisational judgement, making high-level decisions under pressure.
- Influencing, Negotiating & Communicating: Communicates complex ideas clearly and handles difficult messages effectively. Builds and maintains trust with senior stakeholders and Members, fostering consensus and collaboration.
- Delivering Results: Accountable for risk management, stakeholder engagement, and ensuring effective project controls. Defines success criteria, monitors progress and responds to assurance recommendations.
How To Apply:
CV & Supporting Statement – If you would like to apply for this role, please submit your CV and a supporting statement (maximum two sides of A4) giving evidence of the strength and depth of your ability to meet the criteria for the role. Please provide specific examples to demonstrate how you meet each of the criteria listed.
Additional Information:
More information on the role and the full criteria can be found in the Job Description. Please note that most job offers will be made at the minimum of the salary range, other than in exceptional circumstances. Please ensure that you anonymise your application by removing any identifiable factors from your CV or Supporting Statement. We may close the vacancy prior to the closing date stated due to a high volume of applications.
Programme Director (Savings and Improvement Programme) employer: HOUSE OF COMMONS
Contact Detail:
HOUSE OF COMMONS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Director (Savings and Improvement Programme)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the House of Commons' current Savings and Improvement Programme. Understanding its goals and challenges will help you demonstrate your strategic thinking and how you can contribute to its success during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals who have experience in public sector programme management. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and help you build relationships that may be beneficial when applying or interviewing.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your leadership skills and ability to manage complex programmes. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully navigated stakeholder relationships and delivered results.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and challenges within the public sector, especially those affecting financial planning and efficiency. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also show your commitment to the role and the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Director (Savings and Improvement Programme)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and skills required for the Programme Director position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you meet each criterion listed in the job description. Be clear and concise, showcasing your leadership and strategic thinking abilities.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV is updated and tailored to the role. Highlight relevant experience, particularly in leading complex programmes and managing stakeholders. Remember to anonymise your CV by removing identifiable information.
Proofread and Review: Before submitting your application, proofread both your CV and supporting statement for any errors or inconsistencies. Consider asking a friend or colleague to review them as well, ensuring clarity and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at HOUSE OF COMMONS
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Programme Director, showcasing your leadership experience is crucial. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led complex programmes and built trust within teams. Highlight your inclusive leadership style and how it has positively impacted project outcomes.
✨Showcase Strategic Thinking
Be ready to discuss your strategic planning abilities. Think about instances where you've prioritised resources effectively or delivered value for money. Understanding the strategic challenges faced by the House of Commons will also help you align your answers with their needs.
✨Prepare for Complex Decision-Making
Expect questions that assess your ability to analyse complex situations and make sound decisions under pressure. Share examples where you've navigated challenging scenarios and proposed innovative solutions, demonstrating your political and organisational judgement.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating complex ideas clearly and handling difficult messages. Be prepared to discuss how you've built consensus among stakeholders and maintained trust in previous roles.