Job Description

On behalf of Department for Transport Operator Limited, we are looking for a Programme Manager (Inside IR35) for a 12-month contract. This is a hybrid working role (three days per week office based - London).

Job Purpose:

In the context of pre-creation of GBR, and to de-risk the transition into GBR, it has been decided to amalgamate and integrate functions across the landscape early.



This has led to the creation of 'Project Squirrel' to deliver the transition of DfT functions into DFTO, as well as elements of Network Rail's System Operator teams. This will precede an ongoing transformation programme to ensure DFTO's readiness for Day One of GBR.

As a Programme Manager, your main responsibilities will be to:

Lead the programme of transition activity to transfer in organisational capability (people, systems and assets) into DFTO. Oversee delivery of all preparatory and delivery work packages to time, quality and budget requirements. Support the HR programme lead and individual workstream leads to deliver required outputs and ensure delivery. With the HR programme lead, act as the visible leaders of the programme and focal point for DFTO personnel. Ensure the Day-One capability, accountability and outcome requirements for DFTO are defined, developed and ready, including identifying capability gaps as early as possible and devising mitigation strategies. Provide input on the frameworks and methodologies appropriate to deliver a comprehensive and consistent approach to achieve the successful stand up of DFTO-26, the organisation to deliver from April 2026 to GBR on day 1 and beyond. Establish and cultivate of effective working relationships with the DFTO Executive, senior stakeholders in the rail industry and the teams across the partner organisations to the delivery of the programme. Establish a programme delivery structure to drive consistent, high value and effective processes, and ensure that appropriate management information is developed and available to support decision-making. Develop, manage and maintain appropriate documentation relating to the programme and produce Board-level management information as required. Work collaboratively with Human Resources (HR) and other DFTO functions to plan and monitor the transitional structure and resources so budgets are used most efficiently. Support the Programme Director the development of the post-transfer transformation programme. Identify requirements for additional resource and lead the recruitment for industry secondments and delivery partner remits for the post-transfer transformation programme. Develop, own and maintain the programme level Risk Register, planning and implementing responses and mitigations with identified Risk Owners and escalating risks that remain a threat to delivery of the integrated schedule to the Programme Director.

Essential:

Degree level with Chartered APM status or equivalent Comprehensive experience and skills in leading and managing complicated programmes in multi-stakeholder environments Strong leadership skills, with the vision and ability to establish cross-industry relationships and drive cultural / organisational change Excellent communication and influencing skills Exceptional interpersonal skills, possessing the ability to interact and maintain credibility with people at all levels across the business and industry stakeholders Demonstrable experience of leading and motivating large teams within a large complex/ matrix management organisation Proven ability to effectively lead, coach, mentor and motivate at all levels within the organization Experience advising and working in conjunction with senior staff at Executive and Board level.

Desirable:

Familiarity with agile methods of programme management (Desirable)

Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not Overseas.



Disability Confident



As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, DFTO guarantees to interview all candidates who have a disability and who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of candidates who have a disability who meet all the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. This scheme encourages candidates with a disability and/or neurodivergence to apply.



In applying for this role, you acknowledge the following "this role falls in scope of the Off Payroll Working in the Public Sector legislation. Any rates of payment quoted will reflect the gross rate per day for the assignment and will be subject to appropriate taxes and statutory costs. As such the payment to the intermediary and your income resulting from this contract will be different".