Program Manager - UK Government/Public Sector Client

Experience: 10 to 15 years

Location: Pune

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled Programme Manager to lead complex technology and transformation programmes for UK Government or public sector clients, managing both onshore and offshore delivery models. This role requires a strong understanding of public sector governance, compliance frameworks, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring high-quality and secure delivery of outcomes across geographies. The successful candidate will drive end-to end programme execution, ensuring seamless coordination between UK-based teams, offshore delivery centres, and multiple supplier partners.

Role & Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage large-scale programmes serving UK Government or public sector departments, ensuring adherence to government standards, timelines, and quality benchmarks.
• Oversee onshore and offshore delivery across multiple workstreams, ensuring integration, risk control, and delivery excellence.
• Establish and maintain strong governance frameworks, reporting structures, and performance tracking mechanisms.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for government stakeholders, senior officials, and vendor partners.
• Ensure full compliance with UK Government security, data protection, and procurement regulations (e.g., GDPR, GDS, Cabinet Office guidelines).
• Manage programme financials, budgets, and supplier contracts, ensuring cost-effective and transparent delivery.
• Lead steering committees, delivery reviews, and status reporting at both executive and operational levels.
• Promote collaboration, accountability, and best practices between onshore and offshore teams.
• Drive continuous improvement across programme governance, quality, and communication practices.

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Proven expertise in delivering government or public sector programmes with multi-vendor and global delivery models.
• Deep understanding of UK Government frameworks (e.g., GDS standards, Digital by Default, Agile delivery in the public sector).
• Strong ability to navigate stakeholder landscapes, including government clients, suppliers, and internal teams.
• Experience in managing onshore-offshore delivery operations, particularly in partnership with offshore technology centres.
• Excellent skills in programme governance, risk management, issue resolution, and stakeholder communication.
• Familiarity with ITIL, service transition, and operational readiness processes.
• Financial management and commercial acumen in working with SOWs, SLAs, and vendor contracts.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Minimum 10 years of experience, with at least 5 years in programme or delivery management roles for large-scale or government initiatives.
• Strong track record managing offshore/nearshore delivery teams (India or similar preferred).
• Relevant certifications: PRINCE2 Practitioner, MSP, PMP, or Agile Delivery preferred.
• Prior exposure to Home Office, NHS, MOD, DEFRA, or Local Authority projects is an advantage.

Personal Attributes:

• Exceptional communication and presentation skills for interaction with senior government stakeholders.
• Culturally aware leader with a collaborative and transparent working style.
• Analytical thinker with a strategic mindset and strong problem-solving ability.
• Confident managing ambiguity, prioritizing deliverables, and maintaining compliance.

Education Details:

• Graduation in Engineering, Information Technology, Business Management, or related field.