Head of PMO (Programme Management Office) – Cumbria Combined Authority
Salary: £65,873 to £68,775
Location: Penrith (including agile working and working from home)
Contract Type: Permanent
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 Head of PMO (Programme Management Office) to join us on our journey.
About this opportunity
This role leads the Combined Authority’s Programme Management Office (PMO), providing strategic oversight and leadership across a portfolio of transformation and investment programmes. Responsible for developing the PMO as a centre of excellence, you will establish and embed governance frameworks, delivery standards, assurance processes and reporting arrangements that support successful programme and project delivery across the organisation.
You will oversee portfolio prioritisation, pipeline management, performance reporting, risk and dependency management, ensuring programmes are aligned to strategic priorities, funding requirements and intended outcomes. Working with services and partners across the Authority, you will support the development of robust business cases, drive consistent programme management approaches, and oversee the successful implementation of change and benefits realisation.
The role also provides independent assurance to senior leaders and Members on programme performance, delivery confidence and strategic alignment, helping to ensure the Authority delivers sustainable, effective and value-driven transformation.
Who we are looking for…
We are looking for an experienced programme and portfolio management professional with a proven track record of leading PMO functions and delivering complex transformation and investment programmes. You will have strong knowledge of the local government environment, particularly the opportunities and challenges facing Combined Authorities, alongside expertise in portfolio, programme and project management.
You will bring experience of working in politically sensitive environments, building effective relationships with senior leaders, elected members and partners, and managing multiple priorities in a complex setting. With strong analytical, communication and stakeholder management skills, you will be able to provide constructive challenge, influence decision-making and drive successful programme delivery, ensuring outcomes are achieved on time, within budget and aligned to strategic priorities.
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 Jon Alsop via email - [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: 19/07/2026
Final interview date: 28/07/2026 & 29/07/2026
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.
Please note that Westmorland and Furness Council is providing recruitment support on behalf of the Cumbria Combined Authority. As part of this process, applicants will complete a Westmorland and Furness Council application form.
