At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a major data platform replacement programme and engage with stakeholders.
- Company: Established UK organisation with a high-visibility role.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and impactful work.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with quick interview process.
- Why this job: Drive significant change and influence at Board level.
- Qualifications: Experience in stakeholder engagement and large-scale technology programmes.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
A well-established UK organisation is seeking an experienced Programme Lead to run the Pre-Discovery phase for a major data platform replacement programme. This is a high-visibility, Board-facing mandate: you'll be accountable for building the evidence base - stakeholder appetite, legal position, cost estimate and delivery plan - that determines whether a significant replacement programme gets the green light in November.
What you'll be doing:
- Appointing and managing an external consultancy through RFP and delivery
- Leading stakeholder engagement to assess appetite, funding willingness and concerns around a replacement solution
- Coordinating legal and commercial analysis on exit and transition considerations
- Developing the 2027 Discovery & Design phase plan and cost estimate
- Producing the Board recommendation, paper and mobilisation roadmap
What you'll bring:
- Strong track record in stakeholder consultation or market engagement programmes
- Experience delivering large-scale technology or data programmes, ideally with TOM or major platform deployment experience
- Comfort managing external consultancies/suppliers as well as internal delivery
- Confident Board-level report writing and presentation skills
- Genuine end-to-end programme ownership - this is a 'figure it out and drive it' role, not a BAU delivery seat
Process: Single-stage interview, moving quickly (1-2 weeks' notice acceptable).
Programme Director employer: Oliver James
Join a leading UK life insurer that prioritises employee development and collaboration within a dynamic actuarial environment. As a Life Actuary, you'll not only enhance your technical skills in capital modelling and stress testing but also engage with senior stakeholders, contributing to impactful business decisions. With a strong focus on career growth and a supportive team culture, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape your future while making a meaningful contribution to the organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Director
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Programme Director at Oliver James!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Oliver James or be willing to refer you for that Programme Director position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Oliver James who’s on the lookout for their next Programme Director star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Programme Director role at Oliver James!
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Oliver James. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oliver James
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Oliver James. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
