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- Tasks: Lead and manage impactful education projects across the UK.
- Company: Star Academies, a values-driven multi-academy trust.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holidays, healthcare plans, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape young lives and drive meaningful change in education.
- Qualifications: Experienced in programme management with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with travel required for new school projects.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
At Star Academies, we are committed to transforming lives through education. We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Head of Programmes and Projects to lead and manage our Projects Unit.
As Head of Programmes and Projects, you will take responsibility for leading our programme and project management function within our head office. This includes developing and maintaining a robust framework for programme and project delivery, strengthening organisational capability in this area, and managing the Projects Unit.
You will oversee and drive the successful delivery of multiple programmes and projects running concurrently, working in close partnership with colleagues across all levels of the organisation, including senior leadership, to ensure objectives are achieved on time and to an exceptional standard.
This role is crucial in overseeing a diverse programme of new projects, including the development of new schools, converting and transferring academies, and exploring growth opportunities. If you are passionate about driving change and delivering impactful projects, we want to hear from you!
Who we are looking for:
As the successful candidate, you will be an experienced programme and project manager with a proven ability to identify and deliver change using project management techniques and methodology. You will have experience working in a PMO, leading multidisciplinary teams, delivering organisational objectives and driving change and improvement. You will be an inclusive and collaborative team leader, with a keen interest in developing both your team and organisational capacity and capability.
This is a role that will require you to travel anywhere within the UK where new school projects emerge, therefore willingness to travel is essential.
About Star Academies:
Star Academies is a high-performing multi-academy trust that runs more than 30 primary and secondary schools. We are a values-based organisation that works to improve the life chances of young people in areas of social and economic deprivation to help them succeed at the highest levels of education, employment and the professions. Every single day you'll be rewarded with the opportunity to shape a young person's future - our STAR values embody what we believe is needed to succeed.
Professional development is key to our ongoing success, so we continually invest in our employees through our professional development hub, Star Talent Academy. With a wealth of training, mentoring and progression opportunities across a large, growing group of academies, joining our team of leading education experts could propel your career to the next level.
We can also offer you a range of rewards and benefits, including competitive salaries and pension schemes, generous holiday entitlements and healthcare cash plans.
Key Dates:
- Closing Date: Wednesday 4 February 2026 at 23:59.
- Interview Date: w/c 9 February 2026.
- Proposed Start Date: negotiable/as soon as possible.
Find out more:
To apply, please visit our website via the button below. Note, we currently operate hybrid working arrangements (3 days a week at our head office in Blackburn and two days at home).
Head of Programmes and Projects in Blackburn employer: Star Academies
Contact Detail:
Star Academies Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Programmes and Projects in Blackburn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching Star Academies thoroughly. Understand their values and recent projects, so you can show how your experience aligns with their mission of transforming lives through education.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your project management successes and how you've driven change in previous roles. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can lead their Projects Unit effectively.
✨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, it shows you’re serious about joining the Star Academies team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Programmes and Projects in Blackburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in programme and project management. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of projects you've led and the impact they had. We want to see how you've driven change and delivered results in your previous roles.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value inclusivity and collaboration, so don’t hesitate to share your passion for education and how you can contribute to our mission at Star Academies.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Star Academies
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the projects and programmes that Star Academies is currently running. Familiarise yourself with their objectives, challenges, and successes. This will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head of Programmes and Projects, showcasing your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led multidisciplinary teams in the past. Be ready to discuss specific situations where you drove change and improved project outcomes, highlighting your collaborative approach.
✨Emphasise Your Change Management Experience
Star Academies is looking for someone who can identify and deliver change effectively. Be prepared to share your experiences with project management methodologies and how you've applied them to achieve organisational objectives. Use concrete examples to illustrate your impact on previous projects.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Since this role is all about transforming lives through education, it’s important to convey your passion for the sector. Share your motivations for wanting to work with Star Academies and how you envision contributing to their mission. This personal touch can set you apart from other candidates.
