At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT projects, manage teams, and ensure timely delivery of complex infrastructure programmes.
- Company: Join a dynamic government project team with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, fully remote work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Initial onboarding in South London; flexible start date based on clearance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-profile project while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: PM certification required; experience in Agile and Waterfall methodologies preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Duration: Initial 12-month contract
Day Rate: Competitive Contract Rate; Outside IR35 (DOE)
Location: Fully remote (except for the initial onboarding week in South London)
Security Clearance: Candidates must be eligible for BPSS and Counter-Terrorist Check (CTC) clearance
Start Date: September or October 2026, subject to the clearance process
We are looking for multiple IT Project Managers to support a major infrastructure mobilization programme for a large government department.
- 2x IT Project Managers: You will own the end-to-end execution of a detailed IT project plan, keeping fast-paced deliverables on schedule against fixed go-live dates. Reporting to the Senior PM, you will run daily standups and sprint ceremonies, manage Jira KANBAN boards, and maintain the RAID log. You will act as the key point of contact for external supplier mobilization teams to ensure critical paths align, while directly managing a Project Coordinator to support delivery.
- Key Requirements:
- Advanced Planning: Expert use of Smartsheet or MS Project to manage complex, multi-workstream project plans and critical paths.
- Methodology: Proven experience blending Waterfall and Agile frameworks in a fast-paced environment, including leading standups and sprint ceremonies with technical/developer teams.
- Data Tracking: Intermediate to advanced MS Excel skills, including a working understanding of macros and pivot tables.
- Vendor & Stakeholder Management: Experience aligning with third-party suppliers and translating technical cloud/infrastructure (Azure/IaaS) concepts to non-technical public sector clients.
- Team Leadership: Prior experience managing a Project Coordinator or Junior PM.
- 1x Senior IT Project Manager: As a Senior Project Manager, you will oversee the overarching governance, macro-planning, and delivery of multiple parallel IT workstreams within a high-profile mobilisation programme. Reporting directly to the Programme Director, you will drive the entire project lifecycle, manage Quality Gateway assessments, and lead risk/change management frameworks. You will act as a key collaborator for cross-functional teams and external vendors, ensuring all multi-workstream critical paths align to fixed timelines while directly managing a Project Coordinator and multiple Project Managers.
- Key Requirements:
- Senior Leadership: 5+ years of Senior PM experience managing complex, multi-workstream IT delivery frameworks and leading other Project Managers.
- Macro Planning & Commercials: Proven experience managing large, complex project plans spanning 12 months+ (multiple intersecting critical paths) using Smartsheet or MS Project, with full accountability for project budgets.
- Methodology & Tooling: Expert proficiency blending Waterfall and Agile practices (including Quality Gateways), with operational experience using Jira KANBAN or digital tracking boards.
- Data Tools: Intermediate to advanced MS Excel skills (including macros and pivot tables) for programme progress analytics.
- Stakeholder Orchestration: Strong track record of supply-side project management, dealing with external vendors and translating technical cloud/infrastructure (Azure/IaaS) concepts to non-technical public sector clients.
Qualifications: Essential practitioner-level PM certification (PRINCE2, APM, or PMI).
To Apply: Please submit your CV along with your earliest availability and desired day rate, clearly indicating which track you wish to be considered for.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contract IT Project Manager in Sheffield
✨Get Involved in IT Consulting Communities
Join popular online forums and communities specifically for IT consultants, like Spiceworks or TechRepublic. This is a fab way to connect with potential clients and stay updated on industry trends that could lead to freelance gigs.
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Public Portfolio
Create a portfolio website where you showcase your IT consulting projects, case studies, and testimonials from past clients. This not only builds your credibility but also makes it easier for potential clients to see what you can offer.
✨Utilise Freelance Platforms
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✨Tap into Your Network
Reach out to your existing connections in the IT sector and let them know you’re available for freelance projects. This could also mean attending local tech meetups or webinars where you can not only learn but find new clients. And remember, if you see a role that looks right, apply through our website at IO Associates for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Contract IT Project Manager in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Tech Toolbox:Let’s be real: in IT consulting, your skills and tools can make or break the project. Make sure your CV includes a solid list of the technologies you’ve worked with and any specific programming languages you're fluent in. If you’ve got experience with project management tools, like JIRA or Trello, shout about that too! It shows you're not just a tech head, but you can manage the chaos too.
Your Portfolio is Your Best Mate:As a freelancer, your portfolio is your calling card. Make it shine! Include case studies of projects you’ve worked on that highlight your problem-solving skills and the impact of your work. Make sure to detail the challenges faced and how you overcame them—clients love to see tangible results. A well-structured portfolio is your best chance to impress!
Tailor Your Approach:Unlike full-time applications, freelance gigs need that personal touch. Write a cover letter that doesn't just highlight your skills but also your understanding of IO Associates and what they’re looking for. Explain how your unique approach can solve their challenges. This kind of personalisation shows you care and sets you apart from the cookie-cutter applications.
Be Clear on Your Rates and Availability:When applying for freelance roles, clarity is key! Include your rates and availability upfront in your application to avoid any confusion later. This honesty will save both you and IO Associates time, and it shows you’re serious about doing business. We believe it’s best to be transparent right from the get-go!
How to prepare for a job interview at IO Associates
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
In IT consulting, they’ll want to see how you tackle real-life client issues. Prepare to discuss specific case studies from your freelance experience where you've demonstrated your problem-solving prowess. Come armed with examples that highlight the strategies you used and the results achieved.
✨Pitch Your Portfolio Like a Pro
As a freelancer, your portfolio is your calling card. Make sure it’s not just a collection of past projects but a narrative of your journey. Be ready to discuss how each project reflects your capability and how you can bring value to IO Associates. Tailor this pitch to highlight projects that align closely with what they seek.
✨Brush Up on the Latest Tech Trends
IT consulting is all about staying ahead of the game. Make sure you’re familiar with the latest tools and technologies that are shaping the industry. You might get asked about a specific platform or software, so having fresh knowledge will give you the edge over other candidates.
✨Be Prepared for Hypothetical Scenarios
Expect some hypothetical or situational questions that assess how you'd handle various client scenarios. Practice thinking on your feet and responding to questions about project challenges or client interactions. This shows your adaptability and readiness for the freelance lifestyle, which works differently from traditional employment.
