Programme Manager - 6 month FTC
About the role
We are looking for an exceptional candidate to join our Programme team to increase our bid and tender management expertise and capacity while also supporting the team to deliver design-led projects that demonstrate the value and impact of design in addressing complex challenges. This role will suit candidates with a design background and/or strong programme and bid management experience, including those from design consultancies, innovation programmes or creative public initiatives.
You will be responsible for overseeing the bid process internally supporting the team to respond to large scale opportunities while also contributing to the successful completion of projects on time and within budget.
The ideal candidate will be responsible for:
- Managing a small number of projects ensuring client outputs are achieved within budget, scope and on time.
- Coordinating multidisciplinary teams including designers, researchers and external experts
- Overseeing bid and/or project progress and address issues or delays
- Effectively capturing knowledge by producing case studies and sharing these with colleagues.
- Managing client relationships and identifying opportunities for future collaboration
- Supporting senior colleagues to scope potential new projects, bids or tenders with new clients
- Share your expertise and knowledge with colleagues
- Working with senior colleagues to ensure team quality, financial and other targets are all achieved.
- Undertake any other reasonable duties as required.
About you
Skills & Experience
- Graduate or equivalent professional experience in design, the creative industries and/or project leadership.
- Experience delivering design, innovation or transformation projects/programmes
- Experience in project and programme management - AGILE PM certification (desirable)
- Experience managing bids, tenders, grant applications or proposal development
- Experience delivering projects using design frameworks or design methods to improve places, address business challenges and/or upskill participants
- Range of management skills, including resource planning, client relationships, people and communication.
- Ability to work in an agile environment, to be proactive and fast-paced while always ensuring results are achieved.
- Ability to be diplomatic, able to act with confidence and integrity in all situations while influencing others.
- Passionate about how design improves people’s lives.
Our values and behaviours
- Boundless Curiosity. Dynamic scoping of new ideas and best working practices to create and demonstrate impact.
- Inspire Possibility. Brilliant team and project leadership so we clearly communicate the value and impact of design.
- Powerful Together. Role modelling how to get the best out of everyone so we all maximise our contribution to Design for Planet.
Corporate responsibilities
Proactively identify and manage risks and financial controls in relation to the Design Council and your specific area of responsibility
Comply with the Design Council’s operational policies and procedures including financial and risk management, project management and evaluation processes, brand guidelines, GDPR, information security and internal health and safety policy.
Apply now
Apply for the role with your CV and covering letter:
The closing date for all applications to be received is 4 May 2026.
The Design Council is fully committed to being a diverse and inclusive organisation. We welcome applications from everyone who meets the criteria. If you need any additional support, please do send in an early alert to our email address below.
Further questions can be directed to Ishbel Allotey, Head of HR at the following email address: recruitment@designcouncil.org.uk but please note that submissions must be made via the link above.
Details
- Salary: £42,000
- Reporting to: Programme Lead - Innovation
- Contract: 6 month FTC
- Closing date: 4 May 2026