We are currently looking for an experienced Strategic Programme Manager who has previously led complex technology Transformation programmes and has a deep understanding of Programme, Project and Product Management. This role is critical and covers all aspects of programme management, from planning and risk management to setting up governance frameworks, programme and resource alignment, senior stakeholder engagement, reporting, and actively contributing to the continuous development and improvement of the Portfolio Management Office.

This is an exciting role to step into as you will manage strategically important, large-scale programmes which transform how the RSC delivers its strategy and purpose across directorates.

Key responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage the development and delivery of the Modernisation and Transformation Programmes in RSC.
• Ensure continuous alignment of the Programmes to RSC’s strategy.
• Support the Programme Steering Groups and associated groups in their decision making as set out in the terms of reference.
• Develop and manage Programme schedules, manage interdependencies between various initiatives that span projects, products and other workstreams within a Programme.
• Ensure that stakeholder management and communications are integrated into individual projects, products and other workstreams across the Programme. Ensure productive, two-way communication with all key stakeholders.
• Take overall ownership of Programme’s budget, financial management, benefits and benefits realisation plan.
• Work as part of the RSC’s Portfolio Management Office, contributing and playing an active role in its continuous development and improvement.

Essential Requirements:

• Degree qualification and/or recognised project/programme management qualification [eg Agile, APM, MSP, PRINCE2).
• Proven experience in delivering large-scale cross-functional transformation programmes with multiple interdependent projects and products, including legacy system replacement, technology platform migration and integrations.
• Expertise in setting up governance frameworks, managing macro level risks, and ensuring clear communication across multiple stakeholders.
• In-depth understanding of risk management and best practices for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks in large-scale, complex programmes.
• In-depth understanding of diverse programme management principles, combined with a strong understanding of both Waterfall and Agile methodologies, knowing when and how to apply each based on project needs.

At the RSC we embrace flexibility and offer hybrid working, which means our teams come together when they need to collaborate. Although this role is contractually based at our Cambridge office, you will have the opportunity to also work mostly from a UK location other than this. Applicants should be aware that there is an expectation that employees will attend our Cambridge office several times a month.

About us

The Royal Society of Chemistry is a not-for-profit organisation whose mission is to advance chemical sciences. As a not-for-profit publisher, we reinvest surplus funds back into the global scientific community, supporting our purpose to help the chemical science community make the world a better place.

Why join us

At the Royal Society of Chemistry, we promote a healthy work/life balance and flexible working options across the organisation. We offer a comprehensive benefits package to all employees including:

• 26 days paid holiday per annum
• 35-hour working week with flexible options
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
• Paid volunteering days
• Pension plan with up to 12% employer contributions (depending upon your contribution)
• Life assurance at four times basic annual salary

Visit our Work For Us website to learn more about us, our benefits, equal opportunities statement and inclusive culture pledge.

If you are interested in this role, please apply before the end of the closing date, please, see the full Job Description here. 

At the RSC, we recognise the benefits of a diverse workforce and welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds to apply. We particularly encourage applications from disabled and ethnic minority candidates.

As a part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we endeavour, where possible, to offer an interview to candidates meeting the essential criteria of the role, who has a substantial physical/mental impairment which impacts their ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.

We are committed to making our recruitment processes accessible to all and as part of this, we are flexible in the ways we give and receive information. If you would like to apply using a different format, please contact the Recruitment Team at jobs@rsc.org or on +44 (0) 1223 432229 and we will do our best to put any reasonable adjustments in place.

If you have any questions, please contact us at jobs@rsc.org

No agencies, please. All recruitment enquiries from third-party recruiters will not be considered.

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