At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the student voice programme, turning insights into impactful actions and real change.
- Company: The Union at MMU, dedicated to enhancing student experiences in Manchester.
- Benefits: 26 days annual leave, hybrid working, and support for your wellbeing.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and plenty of opportunities for personal development.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on student voices and contribute to positive change.
- Qualifications: Project management experience and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Union at MMU, a values-driven organisation focused on improving students’ educational experiences and building strong academic communities in Manchester, is looking for a Project Manager (Policy) to manage the day-to-day running of the student voice programme, turning insight into actions and ideas into real change.
Key Responsibilities
- Providing end-to-end project management of the student voice programme, ensuring activity is well planned, sequenced and delivered to agreed timescales.
- Planning and coordinating meetings and engagement activity, including drafting agendas, preparing papers and ensuring effective follow-up.
- Owning and tracking actions arising from student voice activity and policy decisions, maintaining clear accountability, follow-through and effective meeting coordination.
- Proactively managing risks, dependencies and slippage, embedding learning and continuous improvement to keep work on track.
- Curating student voice insights, bringing together internal and external evidence to support prioritisation and evidence-based decision-making.
- Managing the In The Loop production, owning the editorial calendar and coordinating contributions from research, representatives, casework and engagement activity.
- Creating, embedding and maintaining knowledge management mechanisms, systems and processes for student voice.
- Working closely with policy, engagement and delivery colleagues to align student voice activity with wider organisational policies.
- Tracking and reporting on policy impact, including wins, mitigations, resolution rates and engagement reach.
- Supporting leaders and teams to turn decisions into coherent actions, projects or work plans, ensuring clarity of purpose and next steps.
Skills and Experience
- Experience leading projects or initiatives end-to-end, operating within agreed budgets and resources.
- Experience of operational planning, translating priorities or decisions into clear plans, actions and timelines.
- Experience managing multiple workstreams or projects concurrently, maintaining pace, focus and follow-through.
- Strong ability to analyse and synthesise evidence, data and insight into clear, accessible and decision-ready briefings.
- Ability to influence, coordinate and maintain momentum without direct line‑management authority.
- Collaborative and relationship-focused, with the ability to work across teams and with partners.
- Confident operating at the manager level, using sound judgement and initiative to balance operational delivery with problem‑solving.
- Motivated, positive and adaptable, with a commitment to continuous learning, embracing new opportunities and making a meaningful contribution to the organisation.
26 days’ annual leave plus at least six discretionary days (four at Christmas and two at Easter) and bank holidays. Employer pension contribution matched up to 6%. Hybrid working opportunities in line with business needs. Supportive, needs-based compassionate and other leave. Supportive maternity, paternity, adoption and partner’s leave. Cost of your eye test covered and £100 towards new glasses. An employee assistance programme to support your wellbeing. Plenty of opportunities for learning and development. Access to student discounts online and in the city.
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week – these can be worked flexibly, and The Union is happy to discuss alternative working patterns.
Closing date: 9.00am on Thursday, 18 June 2026.
Project Manager (Policy) in Manchester employer: Point 13 Jobs
The Union at MMU is an exceptional employer that prioritises the educational experiences of students while fostering a collaborative and supportive work culture. With generous benefits such as 26 days of annual leave, hybrid working options, and a strong commitment to employee development, staff are empowered to make meaningful contributions and grow within their roles. Located in Manchester, the organisation offers a vibrant environment where innovative ideas can flourish, making it an ideal place for those passionate about driving positive change in the academic community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager (Policy) in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at The Union and ask about their experiences. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding the student voice programme inside out. Think about how your past experiences align with the role and be ready to share specific examples that showcase your project management skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for improving student experiences! During interviews, express your commitment to making a difference and how you can contribute to The Union's mission. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role can keep you top of mind and show your enthusiasm for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager (Policy) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with the Project Manager (Policy) role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects you've led!
Showcase Your Project Management Skills:Highlight your experience in managing projects from start to finish. We’re looking for someone who can juggle multiple workstreams, so share examples of how you’ve kept things on track and delivered results within deadlines.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your ideas are easy to follow and that you communicate your achievements effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Point 13 Jobs
✨Know the Student Voice Programme Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the student voice programme and its objectives. Familiarise yourself with how it operates, the key stakeholders involved, and any recent developments or challenges. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to describe how you've managed projects in the past. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led initiatives, managed risks, or coordinated multiple workstreams. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly and effectively.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
The role requires strong collaboration across teams, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked with others to achieve common goals. Highlight instances where you've influenced without authority, maintained momentum, and built relationships. This will illustrate your ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Skills
Since the role involves analysing and synthesising data into actionable insights, be ready to talk about your experience with data analysis. Bring examples of how you've turned complex information into clear, decision-ready briefings. This will showcase your ability to support evidence-based decision-making effectively.
