Programme Manager – Local Government Transformation

About the role

This senior Programme Manager position will lead a core workstream of a high‑profile Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) for a large Upper Tier Authority in Reading. The transformation will merge multiple councils into a single unitary organisation, creating a simpler, more efficient service model for residents.

Key responsibilities

• Translate strategic objectives into a structured delivery plan for the assigned workstream.
• Manage end‑to‑end delivery across areas such as systems, finance, procurement, relationships and customer experience.
• Define, monitor and report on milestones, dependencies and risks, ensuring alignment with the wider programme.
• Work closely with senior stakeholders to turn workshops and designs into tangible, implementable outcomes.
• Navigate multi‑council complexities, maintaining consistency while respecting local variations.

Required profile

• Recent (within the last 6‑9 months) involvement in LGR or similar local‑government transformation programmes, especially during early‑stage proposal development.
• Proven ability to lead large‑scale public‑sector programmes and manage cross‑functional teams.
• Strong stakeholder‑management skills with experience influencing senior officials.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving capabilities to anticipate challenges and drive delivery confidence.

Required skills

• Programme and project management methodologies.
• Understanding of local‑government finance, procurement and service delivery processes.
• Risk identification and mitigation techniques.

What we offer

• 6‑month contract at £750 per day (inside IR35).
• Hybrid working model – 2 to 3 days on site in Reading.
• Opportunity to shape a transformational public‑sector initiative.