At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major IT projects that transform university operations and enhance student experiences.
- Company: Join Kingston University, a vibrant community focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days annual leave, discounts, and access to thousands of courses for personal growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while developing your project management skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing large-scale IT projects and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50160 - 50160 € per year.
This is a full time, permanent position with a starting salary of £50,160 per annum. Interviews are expected to be held on 15th June 2026.
The Role
Working as a member of the IT Commercial and Portfolio Team, you will be responsible for the definition and delivery of major projects which link with the goals and ambitions of the University’s strategy and objectives. The role will lead discussions with the University’s stakeholders, including the Senior Leadership Group members, to produce detailed specifications for projects and develop approaches throughout the project life cycle. This includes defining budgets and delivery plans for projects within the IT portfolio. Reporting to the IT Project Team Manager and working with the Head of IT Commercial and Portfolio Management, the role is responsible for delivering major projects that drive transformational change to working practices, in collaboration with University stakeholders. There is an emphasis on continual service improvement to ensure new services deliver a high-quality service for the University’s staff and students. ITS has adopted a Cloud Smart strategy, aiming to deliver technical and digital services through the procurement of cloud-based solutions and SaaS products. The Senior IT Project Manager will be responsible for ensuring that stakeholders across the University are fully engaged and supportive of the project. You will also collaborate with external vendors and technical subject matter experts to deliver solutions that provide flexibility, adaptability, and value for money. This role will work closely with the IT Portfolio PMO to ensure that projects follow the appropriate governance processes. You may also collaborate with colleagues in the Strategic Projects Office to deliver the technical elements of key strategic initiatives.
The Person
Background and Experience Required:
- Substantial experience in delivering enterprise-scale applications, such as Student Information Systems or ERP solutions, with a strong focus on enabling business change.
- Proven ability to lead complex IT projects, ensuring effective planning, risk management, and successful delivery within complex organisations.
- Demonstrable ability to develop and deliver effective working relationships with colleagues across IT Services and the wider University community, within either a traditional or matrix environment.
- Significant experience of initiating and managing multiple priorities, delivering to budget, communicating effectively to drive successful implementation and contribute to ITS strategic goals and objectives.
- Experience with public sector procurement processes would be desirable.
Directorate/Function
The Directorate for Finance, HR, and Infrastructure plays a critical role in shaping and supporting the University’s strategic and operational success. With a focus on excellence, efficiency, and people‑centred practices, it delivers vital services that influence the daily experience of staff and students while enabling long‑term institutional growth. These services span financial management, workforce development, and the maintenance of both physical and digital infrastructure – ensuring the University’s operations and ambitions are fully supported. With a clear focus on service quality, innovation, and people‑first practices, the Directorate operates in close partnership with academic faculties and senior leadership to ensure institutional goals are achieved. It is driven by a commitment to excellence, service, and sustainable progress, promoting a culture where collaboration, innovation and transformation thrive.
This is an opportunity to join a proactive, solutions‑focused team whose work directly contributes to the University’s continued success.
Why Join Us?
We offer a range of benefits, including:
- 35 days annual leave
- Employee Assistance Programme helps with any work‑related problems having a wider impact on your life and gives you access to the savings centre
- Discounts on Perks a Work Course fee waiver scheme and discounted courses across the University
- Learn new skills with priority access to thousands of courses via LinkedIn Learning
- Season ticket loans up to £10,000 to help you spread the cost of commuting and get the best value for money
We are a place‑based organisation, proud of our location in Kingston and the civic role we play in our community. Our campuses inspire collaborative, innovative and creative communities. Being present on campus is important to us because it helps us to create a sense of belonging for both our staff and students. Therefore, staff are expected to be on campus for the majority of their working week.
Kingston University values
As an employee of Kingston University you are expected to work to our values framework. Our values underpin everything that we do, they shape how we interact with each other; how we support our students; and how we achieve our strategic objectives.
- Inclusive: to value the diversity of students and staff, treating them respectfully.
- Innovative: to apply new methods or ideas to facilitate progress.
- Ambitious: to pursue excellence for oneself, the university and our communities.
- Enterprising: to recognise and act on opportunities.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Bring your true self, expertise, and passion to Kingston where we are continuing to strive to build a university where authentic inclusion and belonging is at its heart. Every one of our staff and students’ identities, backgrounds and diverse experiences makes us who we are - so harness and embrace yours by applying today. We welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ communities and those with disabilities. Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Where required, this may include entry clearance or continued leave to remain under the Points Based Immigration Scheme.
Senior Project Manager employer: KINGSTON UNIVERSITY
At Kingston University, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values diversity and innovation. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our extensive benefits package, including 35 days of annual leave, access to professional development courses, and a strong emphasis on collaboration within our vibrant campus community. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of our students and staff while enjoying the unique advantages of working in a dynamic educational environment in Kingston.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Project Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who might know someone at Kingston University. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info about the role or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the University’s recent projects and initiatives. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their goals. Plus, it gives you great talking points during the interview!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for answering competency questions. It’s a solid way to structure your responses and highlight your experience in leading complex IT projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in delivering enterprise-scale applications. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Senior Project Manager, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to lead complex IT projects. We’re looking for someone who can manage multiple priorities and drive successful implementation, so share examples of how you've done this in the past.
Engage with Our Values:Familiarise yourself with Kingston University's values and reflect them in your application. We appreciate candidates who resonate with our commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and ambition, so let us know how you embody these principles!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at KINGSTON UNIVERSITY
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the major projects you've led in the past. Be ready to discuss how these projects align with the goals of the University and how they drove transformational change. This will show your potential employer that you can deliver on their strategic objectives.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since the role involves leading discussions with various stakeholders, prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with different teams in previous roles. Highlight your ability to build relationships and ensure stakeholder support, as this is crucial for project success.
✨Demonstrate Your Risk Management Skills
Be prepared to talk about how you've managed risks in complex IT projects. Share specific examples where your planning and risk management strategies led to successful project delivery. This will showcase your capability to handle challenges effectively.
✨Showcase Your Innovative Mindset
The University values innovation, so come equipped with ideas on how you can apply new methods or technologies to improve project outcomes. Discuss any experience you have with cloud-based solutions or SaaS products, as this aligns with their Cloud Smart strategy.
