Senior Project Manager - Research & Evaluation (Public Affairs)

We are looking to recruit a Senior Project Manager with a background in managing research and evaluation projects. The role will focus on assisting with managing the delivery of large-scale programmes (£500k+) of projects. We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in social policy research and evaluation.

What is in it for you? This is an exciting opportunity to work on some of the largest and complex central government research and evaluation studies. The chance to make a real impact on society by working on high profile studies which influence and inform Government decision-making. Further enhance and develop your skills by working as Senior Project Manager, where you will be responsible for coordinating large-scale mixed‑method evaluation and research studies, including setting up and implementing appropriate project management processes, communication and engagement with clients, partners and other internal / external stakeholders in collaboration with project directors and PM leaders, developing autonomy for day‑to‑day decision‑making and escalation when needed. Projects will typically incorporate both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis.

The role includes:

• Managing/coordinating large-scale programmes of projects to time and budget alongside individuals responsible for methodology and design, with involvement throughout the project lifecycle including use of PM tools such as RAID logs, Gantt charts, etc.
• Being the day‑to‑day point of contact for clients, managing client expectations and ensuring projects stay within scope.
• Creating and managing project plans – implement project set‑up, organise meetings and the allocation of project resources, and ensure different teams and partners work together effectively.
• Direct involvement in managing/implementing complex fieldwork and sampling strategies.
• Financial management of projects, monitoring time and cost spend against budget, managing scope, and sourcing cost quotations.
• Business development through managing the delivery of proposals, drafting PM sections and generating repeat business through high quality delivery, excellent client relationships, and pursuing new business opportunities.
• Quality and compliance (MRS, ISOs, GDPR) with the autonomy to develop/implement new processes, initiating team project reviews and focusing on continuous improvement.
• Inspiring a continuous improvement culture with internal Operations and external suppliers, reviewing processes and ways of working to ensure best quality of service and value for money.

About You – Essential Criteria:

• Strong project management experience within large-scale (£500K Plus) research / evaluation studies.
• Prince 2 or equivalent qualification.
• Experience with Smartsheet, MS Project or equivalent PM tools, and MS suite (Excel, Word, Teams, SharePoint).
• Proven ability to manage projects to timelines with multiple stakeholders and competing priorities.
• Confidence in managing senior clients and leading meetings and discussions.
• Strong commercial awareness, including experience negotiating with suppliers.
• Experience of bid management, coordinating teams to deliver successful ITT responses, as well as bid writing and costing.
• Experience costing projects and managing budgets, forecasts, and invoicing processes.
• Experience working with multiple partners / subcontractors.
• Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail and proactivity.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, with experience identifying and managing risks and issues.
• Clear and confident communication skills, working effectively across teams.

Benefits include 25 days annual leave, pension contribution, income protection and life assurance. Additional health & wellbeing, financial benefits and professional development opportunities. Flexible working options – hybrid approach, with expectations to be in the office or with clients for 3 days per week.

We are committed to equality, treating people fairly, promoting a positive and inclusive working environment, and ensuring diversity of people and views. We are proud members of the Disability Confident scheme, certified as Level 2 Disability Confident Employer. We provide an inclusive and accessible recruitment process.