Group Project Lead

Location: Bexley
Contract: Interim

About the role

Our client is looking for a Group Project Lead to join them on an interim basis, leading a group of projects and the team members delivering them, and making sure work is completed on time, within budget and to the standard the council expects.

The successful candidate will take responsibility for planning, governance and delivery across a portfolio of related projects. This includes managing project managers and wider delivery teams, working with senior officers and members, and keeping stakeholders informed on progress, risks and outcomes. The role also involves working with internal services, suppliers and partner organisations to resolve issues and keep activity aligned with corporate priorities.

This is a position for a project professional who is comfortable operating at group level, balancing competing demands and giving clear direction in a public sector setting. It suits someone who can bring structure to complex delivery and communicate confidently with stakeholders at all levels.

Main responsibilities

• Lead and oversee a group of projects, ensuring delivery against agreed scope, programme and budget
• Line manage or provide day-to-day direction to project managers and delivery staff
• Develop and maintain project plans, governance arrangements and reporting frameworks
• Manage group-level risks, issues, dependencies and resourcing across projects
• Prepare reports and briefings for senior officers, boards and elected members
• Build and maintain relationships with internal services, partners, suppliers and external stakeholders
• Oversee budgets, financial forecasting and cost control across the project group
• Manage procurement and contractor performance where required, in line with council rules
• Ensure projects follow the council’s project management standards, assurance and decision-making processes
• Capture lessons learned and promote good practice across the team

Requirements

Essential

• Substantial experience leading projects or programmes, including managing project managers or delivery teams
• Proven track record of delivering projects to time, cost and quality
• Strong knowledge of project governance, risk management and reporting
• Experience managing budgets and working with suppliers or contractors
• Confident communicator, able to brief senior stakeholders and elected members
• Strong organisational and leadership skills

Desirable

• Previous experience within a local authority or wider public sector setting
• A recognised project or programme management qualification, such as PRINCE2, APM or MSP
• Experience working across multiple services or departments
• Knowledge of public sector procurement and decision-making processes
• Experience managing capital or regeneration projects

The offer

This is an interim role based in Bexley. Rate, contract duration, start date and working pattern are to be confirmed with candidates. Further detail on the project portfolio, team and scope of the role will be shared with shortlisted applicants.

If you are an experienced project leader looking for an interim role leading a portfolio of work within a London borough, this position offers real responsibility and the chance to make an immediate contribution. Apply below.