Programme Manager (West of England) in Newport

About Us

Women’s Work Lab exists to support mums to (re)start their careers and build the confidence, skills and networks to move forward. Many of the mums we work with have faced significant barriers to employment. That might be domestic abuse, caring responsibilities, mental health challenges or simply being out of work for a long time. Whatever their story, they arrive with huge potential and our role is to help unlock that. Our 12-week HIVE programme combines training, connection and work placements, followed by ongoing support. The impact is real and lasting not just supporting movement into work, but building confidence, identity and community. And we get results! Outcomes for participants include new careers, further training and crucially the creation of a vital support network. Over 70 percent of our 2024/25 graduates are either in jobs, training or volunteering. WWL is now a team of 18 and we’re running programmes in Bristol, Bath, South Gloucestershire, Somerset and Birmingham.

About the role

This role is all about our mums. As a Programme Manager, you will be the person who holds the experience for each cohort. You’ll be alongside our mums throughout their journey offering encouragement, challenge, reassurance and consistency when it’s needed most. This role is for Programmes we deliver in the West of England Combined Authority so that would include locations such as our head office in Bristol, South Gloucestershire and Bath.

We often describe this role as the “mum of the mums” and that really is the heart of it. At the same time, this role sits within a growing, contract and grant funded organisation, so alongside that care and connection comes the need for superb organisational skills, clear communication and excellent record keeping. It’s the balance of these things that makes this role special and also what makes it work.

What we’re looking for:

• Someone who is genuinely mum-centred: You care deeply about people. You are naturally warm, kind and empathetic, and you take the time to really understand someone’s situation. You meet people where they are, without judgement, while also encouraging them to move forward. You are able to build trust quickly and become a steady, consistent presence.
• A nurturer with boundaries: You know how to support people without losing yourself in it. You can hold space for difficult conversations, support mums through moments of doubt or challenge, and also gently but clearly set expectations when needed.
• A brilliant organiser who doesn’t lose the human touch: You are able to keep on top of the detail. You are comfortable using systems, keeping digital records up to date and documenting interactions in a clear and structured way. You understand why this matters, not just for organisation, but for safeguarding, reporting and the long term sustainability of our work. At the same time, you never let process get in the way of people.
• A calm and practical problem solver: Things will change, often at the last minute. You are able to stay grounded, think clearly and find solutions without creating unnecessary stress for others.
• A relationship builder: You enjoy connecting with people and building relationships over time. This includes our mums, employer partners, referral organisations and the wider community. You understand that these relationships are key to creating meaningful opportunities.
• Comfortable holding a group space: You don’t need to be a trainer, but you are confident being around group delivery. You can support sessions, step in when needed and contribute to creating a safe, positive and engaging environment.
• Adaptable and up for figuring things out: We are a growing organisation and things will evolve. You are comfortable with that. You don’t need everything mapped out in advance and are happy to take initiative and make things happen.
• Values-led: You believe in what we do and share our core values: Aspiration, Dependability and Compassion. You are passionate about supporting women into employment and bring a non-judgemental, inclusive approach to your work. In true WWL style, you are willing to back yourself and keep learning.

What you’ll need:

• Experience working in a people-focused role
• Strong organisational skills and confidence managing multiple priorities
• The ability to build trust and build rapport with a wide range of people
• Confidence using digital systems and in keeping clear, accurate records
• A collaborative, team-first mindset
• A non-judgemental and inclusive approach
• The ability to flex and adapt to new challenges and opportunities

Location and hours

30 hours per week with flexibility around how these are worked. These hours will include core hours of 09:30 - 14:30 on your working days. You will need to be present throughout the programme delivery dates (all programmes are run in term time only). Programmes are delivered in person across the West of England, so you will need to be able to travel to locations. There is also a mix of remote working and time with the team in our central Bristol office.

Salary and benefits

£27,000 pro-rata plus pension, statutory holiday, birthday leave and Christmas closure (or alternative cultural days).

Application process

If you would like to apply, please send a cover letter to detail why you would be a good fit for this role. Please also include a CV or a link to an up-to-date LinkedIn profile. Please email your responses to: Samantha Cuffy.

Deadline for applications: Thursday 14th May 2026

Interview Date: Thursday 21st May 2026

We anticipate that this role will start from 1st July 2026 once references and DBS have been completed. This role will commence at 20 hours per week rising to 30 hours per week from 1st September 2026.

The Women’s Work Lab is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from candidates from all backgrounds. Our team must fully reflect the diversity of the women who participate in our programmes and the communities they live within, and we make hiring decisions with this in mind. This post is restricted to self-identifying women only as a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010.