Programme Manager

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The need for an effective bird conservation organisation has never been greater. Climate change, agricultural intensification, expansion of urban areas and transport infrastructure, and over-exploitation of our seas all pose major threats to birds.

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Position Overview

The purpose of this position (Program Manager) is to successfully manage the delivery phase of the Lough Erne Landscape Partnership Scheme and oversee the successful implementation of the projects.

The Lough Erne Landscape Partnership (LELP) plans to deliver twenty-three individual projects to improve access, protect habitats and species and engage communities with the heritage of this beautiful landscape. It will support an innovative partnership approach to the ongoing, integrated management of the natural environment, led by the RSPB NI in partnership with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Waterways Ireland, Fermanagh Rural Community Network, Upper Lough Erne Tourism Development Association, and the National Trust.

The successful candidate will lead a team in the delivery of an ambitious and impactful heritage programme and act as a strong advocate for this unique landscape. We are seeking a confident and charismatic manager, with an impressive track record of getting things done. Someone with experience of working with partners and communities, a passion for heritage, and the ability to enthuse others to work together to achieve the Partnership vision.

The Landscape Partnership is supported by funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

• Hours: Full time
• Contract: 5 years

Responsibilities

Main Duties:

• Coordination and oversight of the overall programme of projects - that they are delivered on time, within scope and budget; candidates must have clear experience of managing complex projects and utilizing project management techniques;
• Responsible for budget setting, contracting and monitoring for Projects and the overall Programme in line with RSPB, LELP and HLF requirements; candidates must demonstrate a strong financial skillset and experience utilizing software to manage complex budgets;
• Lead on the development of the LELP-led projects, holding the team to account and agreeing clear timelines for delivery; candidates must have a demonstrable track record in project development, delivery and successfully managing project outcomes;
• Developing, monitoring and amending an annual work programme and associated budget for presentation to the Delivery Group and Board;
• Ensure that the LELP procurement strategy, communications protocol and brand guidelines are understood and adhered to by all partners;
• To be the main liaison with the Heritage Lottery Fund and be responsible for checking and signing off all HLF reports, financial claims and data inputs;
• Report to the Working Group, Programme Board, and internal governance structures;
• Line managing the LELP team; and must have a strong background in team development and people management with a minimum of 3 years line management experience;
• Responsible for risk management strategy for the programme - implementing mitigation or escalating issues appropriately as they arise;
• Representing the programme externally, including with the media and key stakeholders when required;
• Providing strategic leadership for the Partnership and continually demonstrating the behaviours of effective partnership working through positively engaging a wide section of stakeholders;
• Developing and managing the Partnership brand and website, social media; and working with the team to ensure that content is regularly updated, relevant, vibrant and engaging;
• Managing external contractors to facilitate the scheme evaluation;
• Leading on an exit and legacy strategy project for long term sustainable management of the Partnership;
• To be responsible for Health and Safety issues for the Lough Erne Partnership team; and,
• Through experience and a proven interest in heritage, the programme manager must be able to act as a strong advocate for the partnership and the wider Fermanagh landscape.

Other Duties:

• Deliver talks and attend meetings and events designed to promote the project;
• Deal with any media & general enquiries regarding the project;
• Lead colleagues in identifying and applying for funding for the Partnership;
• Liaise with other similar initiatives;
• Provide articles promoting the work of the project as necessary; and,
• Access to a vehicle and the ability to travel within the local area and occasionally across Northern Ireland.

We expect you to carry out your job responsibilities in an environmentally aware manner, ensuring as little damage to the environment as possible. Our aim is to ensure all resources are utilised effectively and efficiently. You will be expected to apply 'sound value for money' principles in undertaking purchasing or supply of goods and services.

This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. You will be asked to declare unspent convictions and cautions at offer of employment stage.

Compensation: Salary starting at £29,507 - £31,966 per annum.

To Apply

Our role profile describes the key result areas and skills and experience needed for the role. Please make sure you include reference number A1410618 on your application.

• Role Profile (Word 458Kb, requires Microsoft Word)
• Application details (Word 32Kb, requires Microsoft Word)
• Equal opportunities form (Word 31Kb, requires Microsoft Word)

Who to contact:

• For questions about this post, please contact Kevin Quinn, 02890 699099.
• Please click "Apply" below to upload application details to Joanne Cathcart.
• The RSPB, Northern Ireland Headquarters, Belvoir Park Forest, Belfast, BT8 7QT, 02890 690833.