At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead pension projects during local government changes in Kent and ensure operational readiness.
- Company: Kent Pension Fund, a key player in public service with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, generous leave, and access to professional development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and help shape the future of local government pensions.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on pensions while leading a high-profile project.
- Qualifications: Proven project management experience and strong stakeholder communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Kent Pension Fund is seeking a KSI Pensions Local Government Reorganisation Project Manager to lead pension-related project activity arising from Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Kent. Your work will help to ensure that Kent Pension Fund remains compliant, operationally ready, and focused through complex structural change. You will lead the planning, governance, stakeholder engagement and delivery of pension-related activities arising from local government restructuring.
This is a new, temporary role in our Governance & Projects Team that we have created in response to preparing for restructuring of local government in Kent. The vacancy is for a full-time (37 hours a week) 18 month secondment (for internal KCC candidates) or an 18 month Fixed Term Contract for external candidates. The new organisational structure of local government in Kent is due to come into effect in 2028/29 and we would like the candidate to start as soon as possible in 2026 to coordinate the planning and preparations.
At Kent Pension Fund we undertake hybrid working. Our primary office location is in Maidstone but we also undertake home working, depending on business needs. Our team members typically work in the office a few times each month, although this can vary depending on meetings and training.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Co-ordinating delivery of the LGR project for Kent Pension Fund, managing timelines, risks, and dependencies
- Establishing strong governance, reporting, and resource planning
- Engaging and collaborating with senior managers within Kent Pension Fund
- Ensuring operational readiness at go-live and implementation review
About You
You will be an experienced project leader with strong governance and stakeholder skills, able to manage complex change in a regulated environment. You will have:
- Proven experience delivering large-scale transformation projects
- Strong stakeholder communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with senior leaders
- Experience with complex data and operational systems
- Excellent problem-solving skills
Whilst you may not already have working knowledge of the Local Government Pension Scheme (the LGPS - which Kent Pension Fund administers) or local government experience, you will be an expert in project management and able to self-learn. Your work will make a lasting impact on the future of pensions in Kent.
What We Offer
- The opportunity to lead a high-profile, strategically important project.
- A collaborative and supportive working environment.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (dependent upon the Funds business needs).
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Generous annual leave entitlement.
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
If you are passionate about public service, possess strong project management expertise and have the skills to navigate the complex pension implications of Local Government Reorganisation, we would welcome your application. Please clearly outline your project, LGPS and/or local government experience in your reason for application. Interviews will be online via MS Teams video call in July/August 2026.
This post is considered by KCC to be a customer-facing position. The Council therefore has a statutory duty under Part 7 of the Immigration Act (2016) to ensure that post holders have a command of spoken English/Welsh sufficient for the effective performance of the job requirements.
Pensions Local Government Reorganisation Project Manager in Maidstone employer: Kent County Council
Kent County Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff. With opportunities for professional growth in the health and social care sector, employees can make a meaningful impact in the lives of adults with disabilities while enjoying the benefits of working in a community-focused environment on the beautiful Isle of Sheppey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pensions Local Government Reorganisation Project Manager in Maidstone
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Pensions Local Government Reorganisation Project Manager in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent County Council
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Kent County Council.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Kent County Council that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
