Unitary Programme Director (Mid Hampshire) (Full Time)

Unitary Programme Director (Mid Hampshire) (Full Time)

Full-Time 56233 - 65000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
New Start

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the transition to a new Mid Hampshire Council and ensure effective governance.
  • Company: Future Hampshire, shaping public services for a better community.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary of £120k and the chance to make a real impact.
  • Other info: Unique opportunity to shape an organisation from the ground up.
  • Why this job: Be part of creating a new council that delivers efficient services to residents.
  • Qualifications: Senior programme management experience and understanding of governance in a political setting.

The predicted salary is between 56233 - 65000 £ per year.

This role will lead on the transition arrangements to a new Mid Hampshire Council, operational from 1 April 2028. This new authority will replace New Forest, Test Valley, Winchester and East Hampshire councils, as well as disaggregating services from Hampshire County Council.

Across Hampshire, four new unitary councils are being created and this role will work within the wider programme, accountable locally to the Deputy Senior Responsible Officer (DSRO) for Mid Hampshire, while working closely with the Area Programme Director to ensure alignment to the wider Hampshire and the Solent Local Government Reorganisation programme.

You’ll ensure that local priorities are understood and integrated into the change programme and that effective governance and programme management principles are embedded in all that you do. Effective relationships and collaboration across all participating councils will be central to success in this role.

You will lead the delivery of the local implementation programme for the future unitary authority, translating strategic direction into effective local delivery plans, providing strong programme leadership, coordination and assurance across workstreams. You will maintain robust programme controls and drive pace and momentum to support the creation of a resilient, credible and fully operational unitary council from vesting day.

You will support the Deputy Senior Responsible Officer, ensuring high-quality reporting and two-way communication with elected members which creates an open and accountable environment.

We expect that you will already have senior programme management experience within a relevant setting, where you have developed an in-depth understanding across different service areas, a detailed appreciation of good governance and a pragmatic appreciation of operating within a political setting. You’ll be tenacious in your approach in order to see things through to completion, but responsive and flexible to the priorities and concerns of different stakeholders.

This offers a rare opportunity to help shape a new organisation from the ground up, the aim is simpler, better connected and more efficient services. Working with partners we’ll lead with a place-based approach, with service delivery reimagined to ensure they are outcome driven and responsive to residents, communities and places. It’s your opportunity to leave a lasting mark on public services in Mid Hampshire.

Unitary Programme Director (Mid Hampshire) (Full Time) employer: New Start

New Start is an exceptional employer located in Chelmsford, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With 27 days of holiday and participation in the Local Government Pension Scheme, we provide our team with valuable benefits while fostering an environment that encourages mentorship and collaboration among ecologists. Join us to make a meaningful impact on complex development projects in a dynamic and rewarding setting.

New Start

Contact Details:

New Start Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Unitary Programme Director (Mid Hampshire) (Full Time)

Dive into Local Government Events

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We think you need these skills to ace Unitary Programme Director (Mid Hampshire) (Full Time)

Programme Management
Governance
Stakeholder Engagement
Change Management
Strategic Planning
Collaboration
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.

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Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for New Start and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.

How to prepare for a job interview at New Start

Get to Know Public Sector Values

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Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge

Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.

Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration

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