Strategic Projects Manager

Job DescriptionWe are looking for a passionate and strategic thinker to take the lead on major projects that will shape the future of our unique and treasured landscape.As our new Strategic Projects Manager, youll work at the heart of the Parks transformationhelping us tackle the most critical challenges of our time, from nature recovery and climate action to community development and public engagement. You'll collaborate with partners, staff, and stakeholders to develop, fund, and deliver programmes that align with our strategic goals and bring long-term benefit to our environment and communities.Fixed term contract for 2 yearsFull time (37 hours per week)33,366 - 37,035 per annumBased Hexham, Northumberland with some home workingFlexi timeAward winning staff wellbeing programmeWhat Youll Do:Identify, develop, and manage key strategic projects aligned with the Parks Business and Management Plan.Lead the creation of robust business cases, project appraisals, and funding bids.Provide leadership to cross-functional teams and ensure successful delivery of project outcomes.Act as Project Manager for major initiatives, ensuring timely, efficient, and cost-effective implementation.Drive collaboration with partners and funders to bring investment-ready projects to life.Contribute to reporting, communications, and evaluation efforts that showcase our impact.Why Join Us?You'll be part of a small, passionate team working on big ambitions in one of the UKs most beautiful landscapes. Youll have the opportunity to influence projects that make a real difference to people, nature, and place. We offer flexible working, supportive leadership, and a role with true impact.To apply, please read the job pack on our website and complete the application form here:https://forms.office.com/e/DV29zuMaBx by 8am on 21st July 2025.Job DescriptionJob purpose To work on the development of key strategic projects for the National Park Authority. Working alongside the Business Development Director on the identification of key initiatives which will deliver key priorities within the Authoritys Management and Business Plan. These will include, but not limited to, nature recovery, climate action, public engagement, historic environment conservation and rural and community development. Working alongside the Data Analyst and other key staff, ensure the evidence is gathered and analysed effectively. Overseen by the Business Development Director you will work with partners and internal staff teams on the creation of project and programme plans, business cases, project appraisals, budgets, and delivery outcomes for key strategic projects. Ensure that these projects once developed are effectively managed or passed on to relevant officers or Heads of Department to lead on. To work alongside the Fundraising Officer and Head of Communications in the development of bids for external funding for key strategic projects. To monitor the implementation of key projects and programmes by relevant project teams. To function as the Project Manager for some designated priority projects. To ensure sound financial management of all designated projects and programmes. To work with the Head of Communications and Development to ensure effective communication and necessary reporting in relation to key projects and programmes, including contributing to key performance reporting for the Authority.Key Result AreasProject and programme identification and design Work with staff, members, officers, partners, and funding organisations to help identify project and programme opportunities to deliver on the priorities and outcomes in the Authoritys Business Plan. Work with members, staff, partners and funding organisations to assist with the design of project and programmes which best deliver the Authoritys desired outcomes and ways of working in response to existing and emerging opportunities. Horizon scan and build relationship with partners and funding organisations to help identify project and programme opportunities and to position the Authority as a key delivery partner. Work with internal and external partners to help develop a road map of significant ready for investment/delivery strategic projects.Gather the research and evidence in relation to relevant programme and project opportunities, construct detailed business cases and option appraisals and construct and submit internal and external funding bids. Manage the identification, design and co-ordination of strategic project and programmes to ensure Authority wide consistency and quality. Develop and provide strategic project management support and oversight of governance and leadership for key projects. Liaise with and support relevant project or programme delivery teams to ensure programmes progress in line with plans, budget and deliver intended outcomes. Function as project manager for assigned projects, within agreed programmes and budget to meet defined outcomes.Communication and reporting Gather and produce performance information for strategic projects and programmes to support Authority wide performance reporting and to demonstrate the impact of projects and delivery of corporate outcomes. Coordinate the preparation and presentation of reports in respect of strategic projects to the National Park Authority to ensure effective governance and compliance. Coordinate corporate evaluation and learning in respect of strategic projects and programmes. Ensure the Authority delivers its obligations and reporting requirements (statutory and project related) in respect of strategic projects, to government, funders, and other parties. Work with the Head of Communications and Development to promote and communicate the Authoritys projects and programmes and represent the authority in the media and at meetings and events as required. Establish and maintain effective management and communication systems and processes.Financial Management Manage and produce timely management reports on budgets and performance targets within the strategic projects areas of responsibility. Ensure designated projects and programmes are delivered within the context of best value and financial and procurement regulations. To lead on the achievement of income generation targets for strategic projects.Leadership and Line Management Manage the strategic projects and programmes workstream and inspire and motivate others in pursuance of agreed project and programme outcomes. Lead by example in demonstrating the Authoritys commitment to investing in people and ensure that colleagues are fully supported and develop staff through effective work planning and through the Authoritys appraisal, and personal development procedures.Other Corporate working Actively contribute and participate in the development of statutory and non statutory strategy, business planning and policy development within the Authority. Actively promote and encourage the adoption of the Authoritys corporate policies and ways of working. Proactively support the promotion of equality and inclusion in all areas of work. Actively promote, monitor, and ensure compliance with the Health and Safety legislation in the work of the Authority and in any joint work with other organisations or individuals. Support the Authority in meeting its duties in respect of Freedom of Information, Data Protection and the wider ethical, legal and policy framework within which it operates in relation to the role.Person SpecificationEssential:Knowledge Degree or significant relevant experience in a relevant role. Knowledge of current legislation, policy, practice, and funding in relation to project and programme development in a similar field of work. Understanding of Health & Safety legislation and the implication for project and programme development and delivery. Knowledge of performance management Knowledge of the grant giving and fundraising sectors Skills Strategic planning skills and the ability to translate strategy into practical programmes. Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, in particular listening and negotiation skills. Ability to monitor and manage budgets. Good individual and team leadership and motivational skills Ability to manage sensitive issues with tact and diplomacy.Experience Recent experience and consistent achievement within an organisation of comparable scope and complexity. Significant experience of delivery of successful projects and programmes in a public facing role in a similar field. Experience of corporate level project development and management systems. Experience of processing a varied and demanding caseload, working to specific deadlines and timescales. Experience of working with the public, public and third sector bodies, elected members and other public representatives. Experience of working with agencies and organisations to achieve shared objectives. Experience of managing a team of staff. Experience of managing financial resources. Personal Qualities Ability to develop and communicate vision in an engaging and understandable way both verbally and in writing, in ways which inspire others. Ability to act with the political acumen and skills to develop productive working relationships with Authority Members, public representatives, and senior officials in a way that commands respect, trust, and confidence. Personable and approachable with the ability to provide visible and supportive leadership. Ability to work to strict deadlines and manage human and financial resources to achieve desired outcomes. Ability to work a flexible working pattern which may include evenings, weekends, and over-night stays away from home. Ability to travel to sites and destinations to fulfil the requirements of the post. Fully committed to the culture, values, and ways of working underpinning Northumberland National Park Authority.

Created: 2025-07-03