About this opportunity
Location: Kendal
Contract Type: Permanent
The Capital Programme team is responsible for the core delivery of the Council’s c. £80-100m/year Capital Programme developing projects which make a real ‘on the ground’ difference to our communities, places and people in Westmorland and Furness. On a daily basis the programme develops and maintains new council buildings including care homes, schools, community centres and offices; construct’s and maintains highways and cycleways; build new flood defences; work with partners to enable housing development and drive the council’s internal decarbonisation programme for its services.
The Programme Manager Role will support the Council by playing a leading role in the Capital programme Infrastructure Portfolio. The Infrastructure Portfolio is growing and is currently responsible for:
- Marina Village, Barrow - c. £24mil remediation and enabling works
- Sandscale Park Depot – c. £2.5mil Depot to replace services at Salthouse
- Integrated Depot Programme – studies underway in Barrow & Penrith.
- Kendal Parking Programme – study due to commence.
These projects are key for the Council to deliver on its priorities.
Who we are looking for…
We are looking for a self-reliant and driven individual who has excellent knowledge of Capital Works Programme and Project management or can apply expertise in an infrastructure or building related discipline to a programme management role.
The candidate will:
- Lead the development and delivery of significant projects and programmes including contributing to the delivery of the Westmorland and Furness Council Plan or allied strategies and plans.
- Design, build and manage exemplary programme and project delivery environments across any or all stages of programme life-cycle.
- Have significant experience of managing public facing projects and programmes subject to high levels of interest by local communities, the media and politicians.
- Have experience of working with a range of external and internal stakeholders including external funding bodies.
- Have extensive knowledge in managing medium to large value service delivery contracts.
- Lead the procurement and management of major contracts or multiple smaller contracts at any or all programme life-cycle stages from initial feasibility to completion and asset handover. This will include the procurement and management of capital works contracts and service contracts.
- Lead and manage a high performing project and programme management team.
- Actively manage, develop and mentor team members.
- Have a relevant degree or equivalent in related professional discipline
What can we offer you!
Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes. For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council and what we can offer you, please visit our Careers site. Our benefits | Careers (westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk)
Application and Interview information
Closing date: 13/09/2026
Interview date: w/c 28/09/2026
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Programme Manager in Kendal employer: Westmorland and Furness Council
Westmorland and Furness Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises collaboration and community impact. Employees benefit from professional development opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and families in Barrow and surrounding areas. With a focus on flexibility and a solution-oriented approach, this role provides a rewarding environment for those passionate about homelessness services.
Contact Details:
Westmorland and Furness Council Recruitment Team
