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- Tasks: Lead PMO excellence to deliver secure pensions for Scotland’s key services.
- Company: Scottish Public Pensions Agency, a vital part of the Scottish Government.
- Benefits: Permanent position with opportunities for personal development and impactful work.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on high standards and effective delivery.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public service by guiding critical pension projects.
- Qualifications: Professional level qualification in project management preferred.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Lead PMO excellence delivering secure pensions for Scotland’s key services. The Scottish Public Pensions Agency is an Agency of the Scottish Government. Our principal role is to administer the pensions for employees in the National Health Service, Teachers’, Police and Fire-fighters’ pension schemes in Scotland.
The Senior PMO Manager is responsible for ensuring the PMO delivers the critical services needed to guide SPPA portfolios, programmes and projects from inception to closure – by setting standards, co-ordinating and supporting delivery and providing assurance to SPPA SROs. In doing so, the postholder will lead the PMO and be a role model for portfolio, programme and project success across the SPPA.
Responsibilities
- Ensure appropriate governance arrangements are in place and are operating smoothly, with SROs and relevant groups receiving meaningful and timely reports which support effective decision making and delivery of measurable benefits and improvements.
- Act as a role model for portfolio, programme and project hygiene, providing support to project teams on planning, resource forecasting, change control, milestone management and risk, and issue and dependency identification and management. Ensure standardised documentation is accurate, high quality, relevant and timely.
- Develop a suitable library of tools and processes in areas such as RAID, quality and benefits management and work closely with project teams to embed high standards of portfolio, programme and project management across the SPPA. Provide constructive challenge to ensure delivery of milestones and achievement of outcomes.
- Lead and coordinate portfolio, programme and project assurance activities (e.g. Gateway and audit) and contribute to the management of related frameworks and standards.
- Support the Head of Operational Transformation (jobshare) in preparing timely and meaningful advice to the Chief Transformation Officer and Chief Operating Officer, ensuring emerging issues and risks are escalated as required.
- Build cohesion and resilience within the PMO, supporting the personal development of Band B team members and ensuring they contribute fully.
Qualifications
Senior PMO Managers should have or be closely working towards a professional level qualification, such as APM’s PMQ or Axelos’ P3O qualifications.
Working pattern
This role is a permanent level transfer position.
How to Apply
Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive C1 employees. Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words). Please be advised this vacancy is open only to Priority Movers.
Selection Process
All candidates will be invited to an informal discussion with the Hiring Manager. Informal discussion dates tbc.
Further Information
If you have specific questions about the role, please contact robert.skey@gov.scot. Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.
Senior PMO Manager - C1 employer: Scottish Government
Contact Detail:
Scottish Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior PMO Manager - C1
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Scottish Public Pensions Agency. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that informal discussion! Research the agency’s recent projects and challenges. This way, you can show off your knowledge and how you can contribute to their PMO excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! During discussions, share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. This will help you stand out as a role model for portfolio and programme success.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate candidates who want to make a difference in public service.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior PMO Manager - C1
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your statement, make sure to get straight to the point. We want to see your relevant skills and experience without any fluff. Stick to the 500-word limit and ensure every word counts!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; highlight your achievements! We love to see how you've made a difference in your previous roles. Use specific examples that demonstrate your impact on project success and team cohesion.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure your application speaks directly to the role of Senior PMO Manager. We’re looking for someone who can lead and inspire, so reflect on how your experience aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, the best way to apply is through our website. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our team there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Know Your PMO Inside Out
Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of a Senior PMO Manager, especially in relation to governance and assurance. Familiarise yourself with the specific frameworks and standards used by the Scottish Public Pensions Agency, as this will show your commitment and readiness to lead.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific instances where you've successfully managed portfolios or projects. Be ready to discuss how you ensured effective decision-making and delivered measurable benefits. This will help demonstrate your experience and capability in a practical way.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior PMO Manager, you'll need to lead and inspire your team. Prepare to talk about how you've supported team members' development in the past and how you plan to build cohesion within the PMO. Highlighting your role model qualities will be key.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
During the informal discussion, don’t hesitate to ask questions that show your interest in the role and the agency. Inquire about the current challenges the PMO faces or how they measure success. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.