Transformation Programme and Project Manager at Newcastle University

Purpose of the Role

• Drive strategic university-wide transformation initiatives that deliver measurable improvements in institutional effectiveness, student and staff experience, and alignment with the university’s long-term vision. This role ensures that change projects result in tangible benefits and sustainable outcomes across academic and professional service areas.

Key Outcomes & Accountabilities

• Strategic Project Delivery

Successfully deliver transformation programmes that align with institutional priorities, achieving agreed scope, budget, and timelines.
Ensure any project interdependencies are managed effectively, and each project contributes to measurable improvements in operational efficiency, service quality, or user experience.

• Benefit Realisation Agree and track key performance indicators (KPIs) and success metrics for each initiative. Ensure benefits are realised and sustained post-implementation, with clear reporting to governance boards.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Change Adoption Ensure high levels of stakeholder engagement and satisfaction across academic, administrative, and external partners. Collaborate with Change Managers to ensure adoption rates exceed targets and change is embedded effectively.
• Governance & Risk Management Maintain robust governance structures and risk registers that proactively identify and mitigate issues. Ensure timely escalation and resolution of critical risks and dependencies.
• Capability Building Enhance the university’s project delivery capability by promoting best practices and mentoring colleagues. Contribute to the development of a transformation toolkit tailored to the higher education context.

Success Profile
Essential Experience & Skills

• Demonstrated success in leading complex, multi-stakeholder projects with measurable outcomes.
• Expertise in project management methodologies (e.g., PRINCE2, Agile, PMI) and benefit tracking.
• Strong leadership, communication and influencing skills across diverse stakeholder groups.
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities and deliver under pressure.

Desirable Experience

• Experience in digital transformation, student experience enhancement, or operational efficiency projects.
• Understanding of university governance, funding models, and strategic planning.
• Familiarity with change management principles and collaboration with change professionals.

Attributes

• Outcome-focused, adaptable, and proactive.
• Credible leader with strong influencing skills, even without direct line authority.
• Professional, quality-driven, and collaborative.

Qualifications

• Desirable: Formal project management certification (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP, AgilePM).