Head of Programme Management in Cambridge

Head of Programme Management in Cambridge

Cambridge Full-Time 72000 - 88000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
W

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and manage AI-driven projects, ensuring alignment and delivery across teams.
  • Company: Fast-scaling techbio company in Cambridge with a focus on innovation.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Be part of a high-performing team driving impactful change in techbio.
  • Why this job: Join a pioneering team and shape the future of AI in life sciences.
  • Qualifications: Experience in programme management and a background in engineering or science.

The predicted salary is between 72000 - 88000 £ per year.

Walker Cole International is exclusively partnered with a fast-scaling, AI-driven techbio company based in Cambridge. They are searching for a Head of Programme Management to own their OKR-driven operating model whilst leading delivery across science, engineering, clinical and commercial functions.

What you'll be doing:

  • Owning and embedding the OKR framework across the company, driving alignment from leadership through to execution
  • Leading delivery and execution of an ambitious, evolving AI/ML-based product roadmap, coordinating closely across ML, engineering, clinical and commercial teams
  • Designing and managing the programme delivery budget, and managing timelines, dependencies and delivery risk in a research-heavy environment
  • Partnering directly with senior leadership on strategy and execution, providing delivery, cost and risk updates
  • Leading and developing a small team of Project Managers, building a high-performing, scalable function
  • Operating as a cross-functional force multiplier, aligning stakeholders across technical and non-technical teams
  • Bringing discipline to delivery across both fast-moving AI/ML development and regulated, GxP-adjacent processes

What you'll bring:

  • An original background as an engineer or scientist, with a career since built in programme or delivery management
  • Proven experience delivering complex software, data or AI/ML products into production within a high-growth scale-up environment
  • A track record of successfully implementing and scaling OKR frameworks, or an equivalent structured operating cadence
  • Experience in high-growth technology, deep-tech or life sciences scale-ups
  • Demonstrated ability to lead through influence rather than authority alone, with the gravitas to be credible with senior technical teams
  • Significant experience managing and developing cross-functional programme or project teams

Head of Programme Management in Cambridge employer: WALKER COLE INTERNATIONAL LTD Careers

Walker Cole International is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment within a well-established pharmaceutical manufacturing organisation in Wales. Employees benefit from a strong focus on professional development, with opportunities to enhance their GMP expertise while contributing to critical quality compliance initiatives. The collaborative culture fosters teamwork across departments, ensuring that every team member plays a vital role in maintaining high standards of quality and regulatory adherence.

W

Contact Details:

WALKER COLE INTERNATIONAL LTD Careers Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Programme Management in Cambridge

✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions

Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Head of Programme Management at WALKER COLE INTERNATIONAL LTD Careers!

✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks

Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like WALKER COLE INTERNATIONAL LTD Careers or be willing to refer you for that Head of Programme Management position!

✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences

Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from WALKER COLE INTERNATIONAL LTD Careers who’s on the lookout for their next Head of Programme Management star!

✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online

Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Head of Programme Management role at WALKER COLE INTERNATIONAL LTD Careers!

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Programme Management in Cambridge

OKR Framework Implementation
Programme Management
Delivery Management
AI/ML Product Development
Budget Management
Risk Management
Cross-Functional Leadership

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!

Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at WALKER COLE INTERNATIONAL LTD Careers. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!

Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.

Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!

How to prepare for a job interview at WALKER COLE INTERNATIONAL LTD Careers

✨Master the Case Study Game

In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!

✨Know Your Numbers

Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!

✨Show Your Leadership Flair

As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

✨Be a Cultural Fit

We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at WALKER COLE INTERNATIONAL LTD Careers. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!