Head of Programme & Projects

• 40 hours per week
• Monday to Friday (09:00 - 17:30)
• Hybrid (2-3 days in the office)
• Competitive Salary, plus annual performance related bonus
• Sodexo rewards and benefits

Job Introduction

We are seeking an experienced Head of Programmes & Projects to provide strategic leadership across a complex portfolio of programmes and projects within a major contract environment. This role will be responsible for shaping, governing and delivering a multi-year Programme of Work, ensuring projects are planned, controlled and delivered safely, efficiently and in line with client objectives, statutory requirements and NEC4 contract obligations.

Working closely with the Contract Director, Client stakeholders, commercial teams, consultants and supply chain partners, you will provide senior leadership across programme governance, project delivery, financial control, risk management and benefits realisation.

What you’ll do

• Lead the Programmes & Projects function, setting strategic direction, governance standards and delivery priorities.
• Develop and maintain multi-year programmes of work aligned to client outcomes, estate strategies and operational requirements.
• Ensure projects are delivered through robust governance frameworks, with effective controls for scope, cost, schedule, risk and quality.
• Provide senior programme, project and commercial advice to the Contract Director and Client.
• Oversee project mobilisation, delivery and closure, ensuring compliance with agreed methodologies and NEC4 requirements.
• Manage programme performance, reporting, forecasting and assurance activities.
• Lead stakeholder engagement with client leadership, consultants, contractors and internal teams.
• Drive continuous improvement through lessons learned, performance analysis and benefits realisation.
• Ensure projects demonstrate value for money, commercial compliance and strong audit readiness.

What you bring:

We are looking for an experienced programme and project leader with a strong background delivering complex, multi-project portfolios within challenging environments.

Required

• A degree or equivalent qualification in Project Management, Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Surveying or a related discipline.
• Chartered membership of APM, RICS, CIOB, ICE, RIBA or an equivalent recognised professional body.
• Significant experience leading complex programmes and projects across multi-site estates.
• Proven experience delivering multi-year programmes of work, including governance, business cases and benefits realisation.
• Strong financial and commercial management experience, including forecasting, cost control, change management and final accounts.
• Experience managing consultants, design teams and supply chain partners.
• A strong understanding of NEC3/NEC4 contract management and public sector governance requirements.
• The ability to influence senior stakeholders and operate effectively in operationally sensitive environments.

Please note:

This role is subject to successful security vetting. To be eligible, applicants must have continuously resided in the UK for the last 5 years and be willing to undergo the required security clearance process.

What we offer:

Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:

• Mental health & wellbeing support
• Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
• 24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
• Discounts for you & family
• Financial tools & retirement plan
• Cycle to Work & Paid volunteering day

Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!

Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we are in receipt of a high number of applications