At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformational programmes and drive strategic change within the organisation.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, generous holiday, and excellent development opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with a supportive and inclusive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by leading innovative projects that shape the future of the organisation.
- Qualifications: Experience in programme management and strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 57815 - 65021 € per year.
Full time / Part time Salary: £57,815 - £65,021 with potential for further progression to £73,211 with our pay progression scheme. Location: Hybrid. Contracted to our Wilmslow office. Our Wilmslow office will be relocating to Manchester city centre from 28 September 2026. Through hybrid working we offer flexible home and office-based working opportunities and there will be times when you will be expected to attend the office to collaborate with colleagues or travel due to business need.
Why work for the ICO?
- Pay progression scheme.
- Hybrid and flexible working options.
- 25 days paid holiday per year, plus privilege and public holidays.
- Flexi leave (up to 26 additional days leave per year).
- Pension (employer contribution around 28.9%).
- Online discount scheme to save money at major supermarkets, retailers, gyms, restaurants, insurance providers and many more.
- Health Cash Plan.
- Fantastic development opportunities to learn and progress.
Job summary
As an ICO Leader, the Programme Manager plays a pivotal role in delivering transformational change aligned with ICO strategic priorities. Reporting to the Head of Delivery and executing under the strategic oversight of the Head of Portfolio Management, the Programme Manager leads the design, coordination, and execution of complex programmes that deliver measurable value across regulatory services and operational efficiency.
Job description
This role demands a versatile leader who can manage delivery across multiple value streams, ensure alignment with portfolio governance, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. The Programme Manager will be a visible and proactive leader, empowering teams, managing interdependencies, and ensuring change is embedded and benefits realised.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead programme delivery aligned with strategic priorities, executing under the direction of the Head of Portfolio Management and reporting into the Head of Delivery.
- Exercise sound judgement in selecting and applying the most appropriate delivery tools, frameworks, and methodologies to suit the context, complexity, and maturity of each programme.
- Work in partnership with the Head of Delivery to ensure programme teams are equipped, supported, and empowered to deliver effectively.
- Champion leadership and people management, providing line management, coaching, and mentoring to project and programme team members.
- Deliver across multiple value streams, ensuring that programme activity contributes to the realisation of strategic benefits.
- Ensure alignment with portfolio governance, contributing to reporting, assurance, and decision-making processes.
- Promote continuous improvement, leading lessons learned exercises and embedding findings into delivery practice.
- Champion a designated ICO strategic or operational area, contributing to cross-organisational initiatives.
- Provide oversight and leadership in supporting the Lead Portfolio Coordinator (LPC) to ensure programme-level records are maintained to ICO standards.
- Act as a visible and proactive leader, representing programme interests across governance forums.
Person specification
Essential criteria assessed at application stage:
- Significant experience of working in a programme or project manager role.
- Formal programme and/or project management qualifications.
- Experience of managing and delivering programmes and projects.
- Demonstrated leadership in managing delivery teams.
- Experience of working within a structured delivery capability.
- Excellent judgement and the ability to deal with a changing environment.
Essential criteria assessed during interview:
- Evidence of successful implementation of programmes that deliver strategic value.
- Ability to deliver programmes under strategic oversight.
- Understanding of portfolio governance and value stream delivery.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills.
- Commitment to continuous improvement.
Equality, diversity, and inclusion
The ICO is committed to promoting and enhancing equality, diversity, and inclusion. We are focused on developing a workforce that is representative of the communities we serve.
Closing Date: Please submit your CV and cover letter by 23:59 on Monday 25th May 2026. Your cover letter should be no more than 1,000 words and should clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria for the role.
Programme Manager in Manchester employer: ID Co.
The ICO is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises flexibility and employee well-being through hybrid working options and generous leave policies. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from a robust pay progression scheme and opportunities for continuous improvement, all while contributing to meaningful regulatory change in a supportive and inclusive environment in Wilmslow, soon to be Manchester.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Manager in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn, and ask them about their experiences. This can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company culture and values. Make sure you can articulate how your experience aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. The more comfortable you are with your answers, the more confident you'll feel during the actual interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Programme Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be no more than 1,000 words and clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria. Use this opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the role. Remember, we love a good story!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading teams and managing delivery, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've empowered teams and driven successful outcomes in previous roles.
Apply Early!:We may close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications, so don’t wait until the last minute! Apply through our website as soon as you’re ready to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
How to prepare for a job interview at ID Co.
✨Know Your Programmes
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the programmes you've managed in the past. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you delivered strategic value and tracked benefits across multiple value streams. This will show your potential employer that you can hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Programme Manager, leadership is key. Prepare to share instances where you've successfully led teams, coached individuals, or fostered a high-performing culture. Highlight your ability to empower others and manage interdependencies effectively.
✨Understand Governance and Strategy
Familiarise yourself with portfolio governance and how it aligns with organisational priorities. Be prepared to discuss how you've contributed to strategic investment decisions in previous roles. This will demonstrate your understanding of the bigger picture and your ability to align programme delivery with strategic goals.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
The ICO values continuous improvement, so come armed with examples of how you've led lessons learned exercises and embedded findings into your delivery practices. This shows that you're not just about getting the job done, but also about evolving processes for better outcomes.
