At a Glance
- Tasks: Support clients in developing robust project controls for successful execution.
- Company: Leading consultancy in health and life sciences with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to continuous improvement and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving project success in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree or equivalent experience in project controls; strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
This Programme and Project Controls / PMO Senior Consultant role is responsible for supporting clients with the development and implementation of robust controls processes, procedures and tools to facilitate successful execution of projects, programmes, and portfolios. The role provides constructive challenge to delivery teams and undertakes analysis and assurance to support client decision‑making.
Key Responsibilities
- Using programme / project controls expertise, drive transparency and visibility of progress and performance across all stages of the project and programme lifecycle.
- Analyse, understand and interpret project/programme performance data to constructively challenge and/or identify trends and areas for further investigation.
- Present and communicate project/programme performance data to non‑technical stakeholders to support decision‑making at all levels.
- Oversee programme controls and reporting systems including planning & scheduling, change control, risk and cost control; lead set up and ongoing development of internal and external progress reporting processes and tools, including Power BI where required.
- Develop, implement and manage control processes and tools (e.g. change control, reporting, risk, schedule).
- Support continuous improvement through implementing improvements to internal processes related to portfolio, programme and project management.
- Support project and/or programme governance and assurance processes.
Key Qualifications
- Preferably educated to degree or equivalent level in a relevant field.
- Experience working in programme and project controls within major construction / infrastructure programmes.
- Engaging with and translating programme data for diverse and challenging stakeholders.
- Understanding of public sector programme and project delivery environments.
- Experience of working within a consultancy and developing PMO services.
- Demonstrable experience of presenting programme performance data using digital tools including Power BI.
- Excellent communication and facilitation skills.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy alongside excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and organisational skills.
- Achieved or working towards a recognised Programme Management qualification (e.g. Risk management, IRM, MoR, Price2) or Project Management qualification (e.g. APM PMQ).
- Health & life sciences experience not essential but would be an advantage.
Security clearance: You must be eligible to achieve security clearance. We are an equal opportunity employer. We positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates irrespective of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria; please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.
Programme and Project Controls / PMO Senior Consultant (Health and Life Sciences) employer: WSP
As a leading consultancy in the Health and Life Sciences sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. Our commitment to professional development is evident through tailored training programmes and opportunities for career advancement, ensuring that you can grow alongside us. Located in a vibrant area with access to cutting-edge resources, we offer a dynamic environment where your expertise in programme and project controls will be valued and impactful.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme and Project Controls / PMO Senior Consultant (Health and Life Sciences)
✨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 Programme and Project Controls / PMO Senior Consultant (Health and Life Sciences) at WSP!
✨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 WSP or be willing to refer you for that Programme and Project Controls / PMO Senior Consultant (Health and Life Sciences) 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 WSP who’s on the lookout for their next Programme and Project Controls / PMO Senior Consultant (Health and Life Sciences) 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 Programme and Project Controls / PMO Senior Consultant (Health and Life Sciences) role at WSP!
We think you need these skills to ace Programme and Project Controls / PMO Senior Consultant (Health and Life Sciences)
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 WSP. 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 WSP
✨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 WSP. 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!
