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- Tasks: Lead and coordinate a transformative programme to enhance university services and experiences.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking university committed to sustainability and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and a supportive, diverse workplace culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on student and staff experiences while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in programme management with strong communication and analytical skills required.
- Other info: Applications for part-time and job-share arrangements are encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Full time, fixed term contract for 2 years
Closing date: 23:59 7th September 2025
The Professional Services programme will support the University’s strategy to ensure long-term financial sustainability, improve service quality, and enhance the student and staff experience. As part of this strategic initiative, we are seeking a highly capable and experienced Programme Delivery Manager to manage and co-ordinate the delivery of the programme.
This is an exciting opportunity for you to play a pivotal role in ensuring the successful delivery of the programme’s objectives and realisation of programme benefits. You will work closely with the Programme sponsor, the Heads of the University’s eight Directorates, the Programme Board, and cross-functional teams working across all University professional services to implement and embed a new Target Operating Model for professional services.
Based in the Planning and Strategy Office, you will be responsible for extensive matrix delivery of complex tasks and will be expected to achieve this through partnering, influencing, motivating and working with colleagues across the University outside of formal reporting lines.
Our ideal candidate will be a highly experienced programme and project manager with strong planning and analytical skills and a track record of leading impactful changes in large and complex organisations.
You will have :
- Highly developed skills of stakeholder engagement, communication, consultation, collaboration, negotiation and influence
- Excellent oral and written communication skills to present and defend complex concepts to a wide audience
- Sound judgement with the confidence to take initiative and responsibility for decisions
- A thorough knowledge of the changes, challenges and opportunities facing Higher Education and their implications
Interviews will be held: 17th September 2025
Contact Name: Julie Rowe
Contact Job Title: Chief Legal Officer and Director of University Corporate Services
Contact Email address:
Alternative Contact Name: Helen Williams
Alternative Contact: Job Title Director of the Planning and Strategy Office
Alternative Contact email address:
Alternative Contact Name: Caroline Raihan
Alternative Contact Job Title: Interim Programme Director
Alternative Contact email address:
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
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Programme Delivery Manager employer: University of Reading
Contact Detail:
University of Reading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Delivery Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the University’s strategic goals and the specific objectives of the Professional Services programme. Understanding these will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their vision during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in similar roles within the University. This can provide you with insider knowledge about the organisational culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in stakeholder engagement and collaboration. Think of specific examples where you've successfully influenced cross-functional teams, as this is a key aspect of the Programme Delivery Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and challenges in Higher Education. Being able to speak knowledgeably about these topics will demonstrate your commitment to the sector and your readiness to tackle the complexities of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Delivery Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and required skills for the Programme Delivery Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience in programme and project management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your stakeholder engagement, communication skills, and ability to lead impactful changes.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should complement your CV by providing context to your experiences. Highlight your understanding of the challenges facing Higher Education and how you can contribute to the University’s strategic objectives.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Reading
✨Understand the Programme's Objectives
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the objectives of the Professional Services programme. Familiarise yourself with how it aligns with the University’s strategy for financial sustainability and service quality. This will help you articulate how your experience can contribute to these goals.
✨Showcase Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Given the importance of stakeholder engagement in this role, prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully influenced and collaborated with diverse teams. Highlight your communication and negotiation skills, as these will be crucial in managing relationships across the University.
✨Demonstrate Analytical and Planning Abilities
Be ready to discuss your planning and analytical skills in detail. Prepare to share specific instances where you led impactful changes in complex organisations, focusing on how you approached problem-solving and decision-making in those situations.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Higher Education Challenges
Research the current challenges and opportunities facing Higher Education, particularly in relation to professional services. Being knowledgeable about these issues will not only show your commitment but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
