At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex data and technology transformation programmes to drive impactful business outcomes.
- Company: The Financial Times, a globally recognised news organisation with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Generous leave, medical cover, gym memberships, and flexible hybrid working options.
- Other info: Join a diverse community that values unique perspectives and supports your growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a leading organisation while developing your career in tech and data.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading large-scale transformation programmes and excellent stakeholder management skills.
About UsThe Financial Times is one of the world’s leading news organisations, globally recognised for its authority, integrity and accuracy, with a mission to deliver quality information and services worldwide.Here, you’re given the chance to reach millions, create work that matters and deliver impartial journalism in a polarised world.In our warm, collaborative culture, you’ll connect with a diverse community of experts who support your growth, career aspirations and wellbeing.Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and InclusionWe believe in the power of unique perspectives and want all voices in our organisation to be heard, respected and valued. The RoleWe're looking for a Principal Programme Manager to lead the successful delivery of complex, strategic programmes that support the FT's data modernisation ambitions and wider technology transformation.As part of the Delivery Management function within the Portfolio discipline, you'll combine hands-on programme leadership with a commitment to developing delivery excellence across Product & Technology. You'll lead large, complex programmes from concept through implementation, working with cross-functional teams, senior stakeholders and third-party partners to deliver meaningful business outcomes.Alongside programme delivery, you'll help strengthen our project and programme management capability by mentoring Delivery Managers, promoting best practice and contributing to the continuous improvement of our delivery framework.Key ResponsibilitiesLead complex, multi-year technology and business transformation programmes from initiation through delivery and implementation.Develop and maintain effective programme governance, ensuring risks, dependencies, timelines and decisions are proactively managed.Build strong relationships with Product, Technology, Data and business stakeholders to deliver strategic outcomes.Tailor Agile, Lean, traditional or hybrid delivery approaches to suit programme and team needs.Provide coaching, mentoring and practical support to Delivery Managers, helping build capability across the Portfolio discipline.Present programme updates, risks and recommendations clearly to senior leadership and executive stakeholders.Required Skills and ExperienceSignificant experience leading large-scale, complex transformation programmes within technology or digital environments.Excellent programme planning, governance, dependency management and risk management skills.Strong commercial awareness with experience managing large programme budgets and delivering measurable business value.Outstanding stakeholder management skills, including experience engaging senior executives and Board-level stakeholders.Experience adapting Agile, Lean, traditional and hybrid delivery methodologies to suit different delivery environments.Strong vendor and supplier management experience, with the ability to build collaborative partnerships.Excellent communication, influencing and leadership skills, with a passion for coaching and developing others.DesirableExperience leading data modernisation, enterprise technology or digital transformation programmes.Experience developing programme management frameworks or centres of excellence.Familiarity with modern product delivery practices and portfolio management environments.These include generous annual leave, medical cover, inclusive parental leave packages, subsidised gym memberships and opportunities to give back to the community. We’ve embraced a 50% hybrid working model (averaging two to three days onsite) that fosters trust and remote adaptability while encouraging in-person camaraderie and peer learning. Additionally, we are open to accommodating specific flexible working pattern requests for all roles where feasible.AccessibilityWe are a disability confident employer and Valuable 500 signatory.If you would like to discuss your requirements or have any questions, please email talent@ft.com and a member of our team will be happy to help.Further InformationAt the FT, we embrace innovation and the use of technology and appreciate that individuals may leverage AI tools as part of their job application process. Whilst we are happy for you to use AI to assist with your application, it is essential that all information provided is authentic and accurately represents your skills, experience, and qualifications.Candidates should be aware that the use of AI throughout the application process may be monitored to ensure a fair and transparent hiring process for all.Please beware of fraudulent job postings and offers claiming to be from the Financial Times. All legitimate opportunities will direct you to apply through the official Financial Times careers site, and the FT will never ask for financial information, payments, or referrals to third parties during the hiring process. If you have any concerns about the legitimacy of a job posting or suspect any scam activity, please contact talent@ft.com.Join our Talent Community to receive exclusive updates, featured jobs, and insights into working at the FT.
Data & Ai Programme Manager in London employer: The Financial Times
The Financial Times is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative work culture that fosters curiosity and ambition. As a Companies Writer for Investors Chronicle, you'll have the opportunity to engage with a diverse community of experts, enjoy generous benefits including flexible working arrangements, and access numerous growth opportunities that empower you to shape your career in impactful journalism.
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