At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a transformative programme to prevent homelessness and improve housing services.
- Company: Tower Hamlets Council, a vibrant and diverse borough in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and pension scheme.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team in a modern workplace focused on collaboration and community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on residents' lives while shaping essential public services.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing complex transformation programmes, preferably in local government.
The predicted salary is between 73266 - 78090 £ per year.
We are recruiting for a Transformation Portfolio Manager, to lead the Housing Options and Homelessness Division (HOH) transformation programme. Fixed Term Contract for 22 months.
Tower Hamlets is a diverse and vibrant borough in the heart of London. Tower Hamlets Council has big ambitions to improve the lives of the 332,000 residents that call our borough home. The Housing Options and Homelessness Division (HOH) aims to prevent homelessness and rough sleeping and secure suitable homes for residents with housing needs. We are responsible for homelessness prevention, rough sleeping, temporary accommodation (TA), housing options and advice, the housing register for social homes and a range of related support services. Last year, we supported nearly 2,500 residents who applied as homeless and currently house over 3,000 homeless households in temporary accommodation. But demand for our homelessness service and social housing register is rising, driving increasing pressure on the council’s finances. Without urgent change, these pressures will lead to significant risk to the council’s financial sustainability.
Tower Hamlets has embarked on an ambitious transformation programme for the Housing Option and Homelessness (HOH) division and we’re looking for people to help make this change happen. This transformation programme is moving the service from managing crisis to preventing homelessness, which will include redesigning how we work so residents get the right help when they need it. We are building a prevention focused, data driven and trauma informed service to improve outcomes for residents and build a more joined‑up and rewarding working environment. We have just finished Phase 1 of the programme and are looking to expand the team for Phase 2 of the programme. Alongside a restructure we are redesigning services, improving the resident experience, strengthening the leadership and culture, using insights and data intelligence to support better monitoring and decision making and embedding new ways of working across the service.
This is an exciting opportunity to lead a high-profile transformation programme that can have a real impact on the lives of Tower Hamlets residents. As Transformation Portfolio Manager you will have responsibility for the full transformation programme and all workstreams and projects. This is a large, complex programme and you will lead it, providing strategic oversight and ensuring the programme remains focused on delivering the mission and vision of the transformation. You will take ownership for ensuring programme activities are delivered, the programme is kept on track and senior leaders across the council are kept up to date on progress and changes. This includes working with colleagues in transformation, finance and other stakeholders to ensure the programme benefits are delivered.
We are looking for someone with a track record of delivering complex transformation programmes, preferably in a local government context. You will have outstanding programme management capabilities and will be excellent at building relationships at all levels of the organisation. You’ll be confident to support the different workstream leads and provide supportive challenge as required – from service design to data and insights – you bring a broad range of experience and knowledge. Experience of Housing Options and Homelessness would be a real plus. This role is hybrid, with an expectation that you will be in our Whitechapel office three days a week.
Our Benefits:
- Competitive salary £73,266 - £78,090
- Local Government Pension Scheme membership
- Generous annual leave: 29 days, rising to 33 with 5+ years’ service, plus bank holidays and 3 additional days at Christmas
- Flexible and agile working to support work‑life balance
- Staff money‑saving schemes (e.g., rent deposit loans, season ticket loans).
Tower Hamlets is a truly unique borough at the heart of London – a place where history and innovation sit side by side. From the docks and markets that shaped the East End to the global business hub of Canary Wharf, we are proud to be one of the most dynamic, diverse, and ambitious communities in the UK. We are also one of the fastest growing and youngest boroughs in the country, offering unrivalled opportunities to make a real difference to people’s lives. Our residents are energetic, creative, and resilient, and our council is committed to delivering the best possible services and opportunities for them. Our award‑winning new Town Hall in Whitechapel provides a modern, flexible workplace for our staff, right at the heart of the borough and directly opposite Whitechapel Tube and Elizabeth line station. It is more than just a workplace – it’s a hub for collaboration, innovation and community, designed to bring out the best in our people. As an employer, we put equality, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. Our active Employee Network Groups celebrate and champion our workforce, helping to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging. Guided by our TOWER values – Together, Open, Willing, Excellent and Respect – we are building a positive, inclusive culture where colleagues can thrive. At Tower Hamlets Council, you’ll find exciting challenges, supportive colleagues, and the chance to shape one of London’s most important and vibrant places. If you’re looking for a role where you can see the impact of your work every day, then Tower Hamlets is the place for you.
Transformation Portfolio Manager in London employer: Tower Hamlets Homes Ltd
Tower Hamlets Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead transformative initiatives that directly impact the lives of residents in one of London's most vibrant boroughs. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, employees benefit from a supportive work culture, generous annual leave, and flexible working arrangements that promote a healthy work-life balance. The modern Town Hall in Whitechapel serves as a collaborative hub, fostering innovation and community engagement while providing ample opportunities for professional growth within a dynamic local government setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Transformation Portfolio Manager in London
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Transformation Portfolio Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tower Hamlets Homes Ltd
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Tower Hamlets Homes Ltd.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Tower Hamlets Homes Ltd that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
