Principal Project Officer Programme Delivery (ASF)

Principal Project Officer – Programme Delivery

Location: London SE1 (Hybrid – 3 days office / 2 days working from home)
Rate: £35.13 PAYE | £45.74 Umbrella
Contract: Interim Contract until mid-September (potential extension)
Start Date: Immediate Start Available

About the Organisation

Our client is a high-profile regional governance body responsible for the strategic administration and delivery of key programmes across Greater London. They are seeking an experienced Principal Project Officer – Programme Delivery to join their Adult Skills Fund (ASF) team and support the delivery of a significant skills funding portfolio.

The Role

Managing a portfolio of local authorities and providers, you will ensure effective programme delivery, monitor performance, manage contracts, and drive continuous improvement. You will work across policy and delivery functions, influencing stakeholders and supporting the implementation of strategic workforce initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Programme & Project Delivery

• Lead a strategic workforce development project to improve provider capability and capacity across the Adult Skills system.


• Support the delivery of the Adult Skills Fund programme and associated strategic priorities.


• Ensure providers have the workforce, capability, and resources required to deliver skills strategies effectively.


• Identify, manage, and escalate programme risks, issues, and dependencies.

Contract & Performance Management

• Manage relationships and contracts with a portfolio of 4–5 providers and local authorities.


• Monitor provider performance against agreed outcomes and funding allocations.


• Oversee data submissions, compliance requirements, and performance reporting.


• Support issue resolution and continuous improvement activities.

Stakeholder Management & Collaboration

• Build and maintain strong relationships with providers, local authorities, and key partners.


• Work collaboratively with policy, programme delivery, and sector-based work academy teams.


• Engage with stakeholders across wider directorates including Economic Fairness, Civil Society and Sport.


• Present programme updates, insights, and recommendations at boards, steering groups, and stakeholder meetings.


• Share best practice, lessons learned, and emerging opportunities across the programme network.

Leadership

• Provide line management and support to one direct report.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Significant experience in programme delivery and project management within a complex organisation.


• Proven ability to work effectively across both policy and operational delivery environments.


• Strong stakeholder engagement, influencing, communication, and networking skills.


• Experience of implementing strategic initiatives and applying system-level thinking.


• Demonstrable experience of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.


• Confidence presenting to senior stakeholders, boards, and external partners.


• Experience of contract management, performance monitoring, and risk management.

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Knowledge of the Adult Skills Fund, Further Education sector, or wider skills landscape in London.


• Experience working with local authorities, training providers, or public sector programmes.


• Understanding of workforce development, skills strategy, and skills funding programmes.

What's on Offer?

• Competitive rates: £35.13 PAYE / £45.74 Umbrella


• Hybrid working arrangement with 2 days per week from home

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