Programme Director (HR and Payroll)

Are you a strategic thinking Programme Director with a track record of supporting on HR and payroll focused transformation projects?

My client is a government department that provides technology and intranet services to one of the most prestigious government bodies in the UK. Located in the heart of London, they have around 450 employees. The organisation goes into the office on a hybrid basis, where you will need to attend the office 2 days per week.

The purpose of this 6 month fixed-term contract role is to support the organisation as they embark on a significant digitally enabled transformation of their HR and payroll services. They are looking for an exceptional Programme Director to lead the charge over the next 6 months.

Some of the key responsibilities of this important 6 month Programme Director role paying up to £750 per (inside IR35) include:

• Acting as deputy for the Senior Responsible Owner (SRO), providing strategic direction and decision-making authority to the programme team.
• Championing programme outcomes and ensuring alignment with the organisation's priorities.
• Leading engagement with diverse stakeholders across the organisation, fostering collaboration and commitment.
• Overseeing programme governance and supporting the Programme Manager in monitoring delivery and performance.
• Identifying and mitigating strategic risks, ensuring timely escalation and resolution.
• Cultivating a high-performing, inclusive, and transparent team culture.
• Ensuring the programme remains focused on delivering long-term, sustainable change.

This is a high-impact leadership role that will be instrumental in shaping the future of their people services. The programme aims to enhance how they support, manage, and empower its people through new technologies, streamlined processes, and data-driven decision-making.

Acting on behalf of the Senior Responsible Owner (SRO), you will have strategic oversight and delegated authority to deliver the programme’s outcomes. You'll manage complex interdependencies and champion transformation that reflects the organisation's values of inclusivity, integrity, and excellence.

You’ll be a visible leader, building trusted relationships with senior stakeholders, internal teams, and third-party suppliers. Having a track record of implementing HR systems, especially i-Trent would be very advantageous, along with being able to design wider operating models.

The interview process will consist of a 2-stage interview process, and the successful candidate will be required to complete pre-employment checks, which include a security vetting to Counter Terrorist Check (CTC).

For more information on this fantastic Programme Director opportunity, please get in touch.