At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver complex programmes to enhance safety and service improvement.
- Company: Join Kent Fire and Rescue Service, a team dedicated to community safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy pension scheme, discounts, health services, and free parking.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Project management qualification and experience in delivering complex programmes.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Being a part of Kent Fire and Rescue Service, everyone is unique. Everyone has value. Everyone helps to make Kent Fire and Rescue Service a great place to work. We are one team. Together with our customers, we are creating a safer future for Kent and Medway.
Join Kent Fire and Rescue Service as a Programme Manager, where you will lead and successfully deliver complex programmes of work that support organisational strategic objectives, service improvement, and business transformation. The Programme Manager will be accountable for coordinating multiple related projects and workstreams to ensure delivery of agreed outcomes, benefits, and operational improvements in line with organisational governance and best practice for the Command-and-Control programme.
The role is a 2-year fixed term contract funded by the Command-and-control programme working with Fire Control implementing a new command and control system called NEC Vision 5.
We are looking for an experienced Programme Manager to support KFRS, to provide leadership across programme planning, governance, stakeholder engagement, resource management, risk management, business readiness, change adoption, and benefits realisation, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and successful transition into business-as-usual operations.
What you’ll do:
- Lead and be accountable for the end-to-end delivery of programmes from mobilisation through to transition into operational service and post-implementation review.
- Lead and coordinate multiple related projects and workstreams, ensuring alignment with approved business cases, organisational strategy, and portfolio priorities.
- Establish and maintain effective programme governance arrangements, including programme plans, reporting structures, assurance activities, and decision-making processes.
- Provide leadership and direction to project managers and programme teams, ensuring effective coordination, prioritisation, and delivery of programme objectives.
- Manage programme-level risks, issues, assumptions, dependencies, and resource conflicts proactively, escalating through governance routes where appropriate.
- Lead stakeholder engagement across a wide range of internal and external parties, including senior leaders, operational managers, suppliers, partners, and relevant external bodies.
- Ensure robust programme planning and controls are in place, including integrated schedules, financial reporting, benefits tracking, business readiness, and change management.
- Support procurement and supplier management activities where required, including mobilisation, contract oversight, and performance management.
- Ensure programme delivery complies with organisational governance, assurance standards, and relevant policies and requirements.
What you’ll bring:
- A recognised programme or project management qualification at practitioner level (e.g. MSP, PRINCE2 Practitioner or equivalent).
- Agile or Hybrid Delivery Qualification (Desirable).
- Portfolio management qualification (Desirable).
- Proven experience of successfully delivering complex programmes and strategic change initiatives.
- Experience of procurement, contract establishment, and ongoing supplier management.
- Experience of managing multiple projects and coordinating cross-functional teams.
- Demonstrable experience of programme governance, reporting, and benefits realisation.
- Experience of managing programme budgets, risks, issues, and dependencies.
Benefits:
- Automatic membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Blue Light Card discount scheme supported by a number of high street retailers.
- A range of family-friendly policies promoting work-life balance.
- Access to health and wellbeing services and advice.
- Free parking.
Above all, you’ll become part of a service that is committed to the safety of our community.
How to apply:
Please complete an online application and CV as soon as possible. Interviews will take place shortly after application if shortlisted as meeting the criteria of the role. We reserve the right to close this vacancy upon receiving a sufficient number of applications. If you are interested in this role, we recommend that you submit your application at the earliest opportunity.
Programme Manager in Maidstone employer: Kent Fire and Rescue Service
Kent Fire and Rescue Service is an exceptional employer that values the unique contributions of every team member, fostering a collaborative work culture dedicated to creating a safer future for Kent and Medway. As a Programme Manager, you will benefit from a supportive environment with access to health and wellbeing services, family-friendly policies, and opportunities for professional growth, all while playing a vital role in delivering impactful programmes that enhance community safety.
Contact Details:
Kent Fire and Rescue Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Manager in Maidstone
✨Get Involved with Local Fire Services
Join community groups or volunteer with local fire departments to get a foot in the door. It’s a great way to showcase your commitment to fire safety and emergency services while also making valuable connections in the field.
✨Attend Firefighting Job Fairs
Keep an eye out for firefighting job fairs and emergency services recruiting events in your area. These are goldmines for meeting staff from companies like Kent Fire and Rescue Service and other emergency services, giving you a chance to chat and make a lasting impression.
✨Connect with Industry Professionals Online
Utilise platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn to find fire service groups and forums. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can elevate your profile and help us to learn from those already in the field, potentially leading to job openings.
✨Keep Your Training Up-to-Date
Make sure your qualifications are current! Pursuing additional training, like first aid or specialised firefighting courses, shows your dedication and might just set you apart from the crowd when applying for roles at Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Manager in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Commitment to Safety:In the fire and emergency services sector, it's crucial to showcase your understanding of safety protocols and emergency response challenges. Mention any relevant training or certifications you've completed, like First Aid or Fire Safety courses, and highlight your commitment to public safety in your cover letter.
Highlight Your Teamwork Skills:This field is all about collaboration! Make sure your CV emphasises your ability to work in a team under pressure. Detail examples of teamwork from previous roles, volunteer work or community involvement. Hiring managers at Kent Fire and Rescue Service will love to see how you thrive in a group dynamic.
Detail Your Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, don't just mention your job titles – dig into your responsibilities and achievements that relate specifically to fire and emergency services. Include any volunteer work, internships, or projects that display your hands-on experience in this field, especially if you're transitioning from another area.
Craft a Strong Motivation Statement:As you're applying for a full-time role, it’s key to articulate why you want to join Kent Fire and Rescue Service specifically. Dive into your motivation for working in fire services, and how this aligns with your career goals. We want to see your passion for contributing to the community and the impact you wish to make!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent Fire and Rescue Service
✨Know Your Emergency Protocols
Since you're eyeing a role in fire emergency services, brush up on the latest firefighting techniques and protocols. Understanding the fundamentals of fire behaviour, rescue operations, and safety measures will show that you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Expect situational questions that test your ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure scenarios. Think of examples from your previous experiences or training where you had to think on your feet—this will really highlight your suitability for the role and show that you can handle real emergencies.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Community Engagement
Fire emergency services rely heavily on teamwork, so come prepared to discuss how you've worked with others in stressful situations. Additionally, showcase any community involvement or outreach you've done—it's a great way to demonstrate your commitment to public safety and your understanding of community dynamics.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Training
Make sure you’re ready to talk about any relevant training or certifications you have. Whether it’s emergency response training or a first aid qualification, make it clear how these experiences prepare you for a full-time position in fire emergency services with Kent Fire and Rescue Service. It shows you’re proactive about your professional development!
