Project Manager – Supported Employment – Cumbria Combined Authority - CCAREQ003
Salary: £45,091
Location: Penrith (including agile working and working from home)
Contract Type: Temporary – 24 month fixed term contract
Shape the Future of Cumbria
Cumbria is entering a bold new chapter.
The creation of the Cumbria Combined Authority (CCA) marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock the full potential of one of England’s most distinctive places. With devolution bringing new powers, new investment and a directly elected Mayor from May 2027, the Authority will play a central role in driving inclusive growth, improving public services and championing the needs of communities across Cumbria.
As we establish the organisation, we are seeking a Project Manager – Supported Employment to join us on our journey.
About this opportunity
Cumbria Combined Authority delivers economic programmes that are important for the county’s growth. These include activities that make a direct contribution to the local labour market and support people to overcome health-related barriers to getting a job, such as our flagship Connect to Work programme.
This is an excellent opportunity to bring your project management skills to support the Combined Authority in two important functions:
- Oversight of the Integrated Care Board funded WorkWell programme in South Cumbria – analysing performance data and working closely with delivery partners and other stakeholders to ensure WorkWell is meeting targets.
- Support for the Work and Health Board – the Board is responsible for implementing the Get Cumbria Working Plan and advising the Combined Authority’s Board. The Project Manager will work with the Chair and Board members to make sure the Plan is on track and identify opportunities to address constraints in the labour market.
Who we are looking for…
We are seeking an experienced project manager with an understanding of the local supported employment system and the determination to improve front-line service delivery.
Experience:
- Knowledge of current DWP employment policy and understanding of the Cumbria skills and employment landscape.
- Track record in successful delivery of impactful projects within the health and employability services
Skills and Behaviours:
- Effective networking and relationship-building skills with a wide range of staff, external stakeholders, employers and industry leaders.
- Self-motivated and able to work independently across different geographical locations, as well as collaboratively within teams and with partners to achieve results.
- Experience in managing contracts, budgets and associated risks.
- Ability to analyse data and create accurate spreadsheets.
- Strong time management skills with the ability to follow instructions, prioritise tasks and manage own workload effectively.
- Demonstrate initiative, positivity and enthusiasm.
Why Join Cumbria Combined Authority?
- Be part of a brand-new organisation with real devolved powers
- Work with passionate partners across public, private and community sectors
- Make a tangible difference to places, people and opportunities across Cumbria
- Leave a lasting legacy by preparing the Authority for long-term success
If you are inspired by the opportunity to build something new, meaningful and impactful, and to help shape the future of Cumbria, we would love to hear from you.
Join us at the start of Cumbria’s journey – and help turn ambition into reality.
Would you like to find out more?
For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the Role Profile.
If you have any queries or would like an informal conversation about this opportunity, please contact Tim Gale, Head of Connect to Work on [email protected]
Location
This role may be suitable for hybrid working, which means an employee works part of their time in the office and part from home. This is a voluntary and non‑contractual arrangement between you and your manager, and your contractual place of work will remain your office location.
If a hybrid working arrangement is suitable for both the role and for you, you will normally be required to spend a minimum of 40% of your working hours in the office. Our main office is at Redhills, near Penrith. We are also able to use offices of our partner authorities across the county to help fulfil this expectation.
Please discuss any caring responsibilities, disabilities, or other circumstances that may affect your ability to meet this minimum office attendance requirement with the recruiting manager.
Application and Interview information
Closing date: 17 August 2026
Interview date: 10 September 2026
Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.
