Programme Manager in Manchester

Location: Remote (UK)

Hours: Monday – Friday, 09:00–17:30

Department: Business Change

At Kensington Mortgages, we’re continuing to invest in transformation and innovation — and we’re looking for an experienced, hands‑on Programme Manager to play a key role in making that happen. This is an exciting opportunity to lead complex, multi‑workstream programmes that turn strategy into real, measurable outcomes. You’ll work closely with senior stakeholders across the business and sit at the heart of our Business Change function.

If you thrive in fast‑paced environments, enjoy untangling complexity, and bring strong leadership, governance and strategic thinking — we’d love to hear from you.

As Programme Manager, you’ll take full accountability for the successful delivery of major programmes within our Change Portfolio. Your role will include:

• Leading and planning complex, interdependent programmes across multiple workstreams
• Translating organisational strategy into clear, structured and deliverable programmes of work
• Establishing and embedding pragmatic, proportionate programme governance
• Re‑energising and remediating programmes that are off‑track, using decisive leadership and structured recovery plans
• Proactively managing programme‑level risks, issues, dependencies and benefits realisation
• Directly coaching and supporting Project Managers, resolving escalated delivery issues
• Providing clear, confident reporting and assurance to senior stakeholders and governance forums
• Managing programme budgets and third‑party suppliers, ensuring strong cost control and value for money
• Partnering closely with senior leaders, sponsors and business owners to stay focused on strategic outcomes
• Championing modern ways of working, including agile or hybrid delivery models where appropriate
• Optimising resources across the portfolio so teams have the right tools, people and funding to succeed
• Maintaining transparent, effective communication and managing stakeholder expectations
• Collaborating across the wider Business Change function to deliver joined‑up, end‑to‑end change

You’ll bring strong programme leadership experience and the confidence to operate credibly at senior levels, balancing strategic oversight with hands‑on delivery — particularly in recovery situations. We’re looking for:

• 5+ years’ experience as a Programme Manager in a regulated, fast‑paced environment
• Experience within mortgage or financial services (highly desirable)
• Strong programme planning, monitoring and control skills
• A pragmatic approach to governance — structured but never bureaucratic
• Experience with recognised delivery methodologies (e.g. MSP, PMQ, APMP, Lean Six Sigma, Agile or hybrid)
• The ability to build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders and external suppliers
• Gravitas, credibility and the confidence to challenge constructively
• A resilient, proactive and highly organised approach
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capability
• A collaborative, people‑focused leadership style
• A genuine passion for programme and project management, with a desire to continuously improve

At Kensington Mortgages, our people are at the heart of our success. We’re committed to creating a supportive, flexible and inclusive working environment, where personal growth and professional development are genuinely encouraged. We pride ourselves on an inclusive culture that respects and celebrates diversity in all its forms — including differences in thinking, learning styles, gender, race, identity, ethnicity and sexual expression. Everyone is welcomed, valued and supported to be their best.