At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformative projects that enhance services for our community.
- Company: Join Westmorland & Furness Council, a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to positive change.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving transformation and improving lives in your community.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and business analysis is essential.
- Other info: Flexible working options available, with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 45091 - 46142 ÂŁ per year.
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Location: Kendal, Penrith or Barrow (including agile and home working)
Contract Type: Permanent
About this opportunity
This is not just another project management role—it’s your chance to shape the future of services for our residents. As part of the Transformation Team, you’ll be at the heart of the Westmorland & Furness Council Transformation Programme, driving transformation that makes a real difference.
What you will do:
- Support the (re)design and implementation of projects that improve processes, systems, and services.
- Apply project management tools and methodologies to deliver complex projects, working collaboratively with colleagues and partners to design innovative, customer-focused, and financially sustainable solutions.
- Lead and deliver independently complex projects and workstreams within the Transformation Programme.
- Showcase and embed project management methodologies and tools (e.g., APM, PRINCE2, Lean, Agile, Waterfall, MS Project, Jira, Trello).
- Drive progress with a proactive mindset, anticipating risks and removing barriers.
- Apply business analysis expertise to turn objectives into actionable plans.
- Identify business opportunities, pain points and challenges, analyse requirements, and create effective solutions.
- Define, develop, and deliver large-scale projects with complexity and risk, based on identified needs.
- Ensure quality and deadlines are met while maintaining a strong focus on service excellence.
- Build strong relationships with stakeholders and influence positive outcomes.
Who we are looking for…
We’re seeking a dynamic and proactive Project Manager with solid foundation in business analysis, and proven leadership skills to help drive our Transformation Projects forward.
You will bring:
- Deep knowledge of project management frameworks and tools, confidently championing best practices to inspire collaboration and deliver successful outcomes, even in complex, challenging environments where change requires thoughtful engagement and support.
- Proven experience in project management and business analysis, with a track record of delivering results.
- The ability to work independently, using discretion to determine how services and business areas are delivered.
- A talent for building effective relationships and promoting a “One Council” approach.
- A focus on identifying opportunities for success and making a real difference.
- Strong communication skills to articulate the benefits of best practices to services and stakeholders, while remaining flexible and supportive throughout the transformation journey.
- Confidence as a communicator and stakeholder manager, able to influence and build trust.
- A creative and proactive mindset, brimming with ideas and ready to turn proposals into reality.
- The ability to thrive in changing and challenging environments, working collaboratively to drive transformation.
- Skills to translate service needs into clear, actionable plans.
- Independence in delivering plans, roadmaps, governance packs, risk mitigation strategies, and action logs, and maintaining them effectively.
We’re looking for someone who doesn’t wait for change, they create it. Someone who brings ideas forward, turns them into reality, and inspires others along the way. A Project Manager who shapes the future, drives transformation, and leads with purpose, combining strong business analysis skills to turn organisational needs into clear, actionable plans.
What can we offer you!
Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes.
For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the below attachments:
If you have any queries about this role or would like an informal chat about this opportunity, then please contact Catalina Arbelaez on 07867 443503 during 26th, 27th, or 28th January 2026.
Application and Interview information
Interview date: 19/02/2026
We will be conducting in-person interviews, and details such as venue and timings will be shared with shortlisted candidates after the selection process.
Please note: A laptop will be required during the interview for a case scenario practical test. If you would like us to provide a laptop, please let us know in advance. If you have any concerns or require adjustments, we’re happy to discuss and accommodate your needs.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Westmorland and Furness Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone and work to promote an inclusive, supportive culture that values and celebrates our differences.
As a Disability Confident Leader, disabled applicants, who meet the essential criteria of this job, are guaranteed an interview.
We also offer guaranteed interviews to Armed Forces personnel and veterans and those in care or care experienced and under 24 years old that meet the essential criteria for the role.
Project Manager - Transformation Programme WMF2607e in Penrith employer: The Cumbria County Council
Contact Detail:
The Cumbria County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager - Transformation Programme WMF2607e in Penrith
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Westmorland & Furness Council, their projects, and their values. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral—always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common project management scenarios. Think about how you would handle challenges and showcase your problem-solving skills. Remember, they want to see how you think on your feet!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager - Transformation Programme WMF2607e in Penrith
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Project Manager role. 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 managed successfully. We want to see how you've driven transformation and delivered results in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. This helps us keep track of all applications and ensures you’re considered for the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Cumbria County Council
✨Know Your Project Management Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with the project management methodologies mentioned in the job description, like APM, PRINCE2, and Agile. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these frameworks in past projects, showcasing your ability to adapt them to different situations.
✨Prepare for the Case Scenario
Since a practical test is part of the interview, practice case scenarios related to project management. Think about how you would approach a complex project, identify risks, and develop actionable plans. This will help you demonstrate your problem-solving skills effectively.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Be prepared to share examples of how you've built relationships with stakeholders in previous roles. Highlight your communication strategies and how you've influenced positive outcomes, as this is crucial for the role you're applying for.
✨Emphasise Your Proactive Mindset
The job calls for someone who creates change rather than waits for it. Share specific instances where you've identified opportunities for improvement and taken the initiative to implement solutions. This will show that you align with the council's vision for transformation.