Project Manager (Redeployment 22317) in Ipswich

At Suffolk County Council, every role is a chance to create positive change. As a Project Manager (Substance Misuse) in our Inclusion team, you will see the direct impact of your work on the people and communities that make Suffolk special. Join us and turn your passion for progress into action. Reimagine the possibilities.

Responsibilities

In this role each day brings variety, collaboration and the chance to influence meaningful change across Suffolk's substance misuse system. You will lead and deliver projects and programmes that support the Council's responsibilities around drugs and alcohol, directly supporting the Government's 10‑year drug strategy. Working collaboratively across the Suffolk system – including health partners, community safety teams, district and borough councils, and the voluntary sector – you will drive shared outcomes, champion a coordinated approach, plan, develop and implement key policies and strategies linked to the Combatting Drugs Partnership, proactively problem-solve and innovate to improve performance and transform services. You will use evidence and intelligence to guide decision-making, work closely with our contracts team to commission services, manage contracts and oversee budgets, and build strong strategic and operational relationships, influencing partners and ensuring work aligns to the needs of local residents.

Application Requirements

We hope you’ll bring the following:

• A passion for making a positive difference for Suffolk's communities.
• Strong communication skills and the confidence to influence at all levels.
• Proven project or programme management experience.
• Ability to work with evidence, data and intelligence to inform decisions.
• Creativity, problem-solving skills and openness to innovation.
• Experience of partnership working and an understanding of public sector environments.

Step 3 – Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions (no more than 400 words per question). Use the Supporting Statement template.

• Describe your experience and knowledge in the field of substance misuse and the government's 10‑year strategy on drugs and alcohol or similar complex projects.
• Describe your experience of driving key pieces of work that have been dependent upon multiple stakeholders to ensure success. What was your role, how did you influence partners and what changed as a result?
• Discuss your experience with commissioning and managing contracts, agreements, and budgets (ideally within the context of the public sector). How did you ensure effective and efficient use of resources?

Step 4 – Upload a CV (without name and personal details). Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV your application will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in PDF or MS Word format.

Disability Confident – A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. (Additional details available on our website.)

Benefits

• Up to 29 days annual leave entitlement (pro‑rata), plus UK bank holidays and two paid volunteering days.
• Membership of a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
• Travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits.
• Performance‑related annual pay progression, in addition to an annual cost‑of‑living pay increase.
• Training and encouragement to expand your knowledge.
• A variety of career development opportunities across our organisation.
• Diverse and active staff networks.
• Flexible working options, with the right to request flexible working from your first day.

This role sits within the Public Health and Communities (PH&C) Directorate, working as part of the Inclusion function. Join a team that values innovation, equity, and strong community relationships, and help build healthier, safer communities across Suffolk.