Education Improvement Programme Manager

Our client who is a leading London borough, is offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people as an Improvement Programme Manager within the Children and Education directorate.

This is an exciting moment to join a highly ambitious education service that has transformed itself over the years, becoming a leader in educational innovation and excellence. At the heart of this transformation is a commitment to inclusivity, equity, and ensuring every child has access to the support they need to thrive.

We are seeking a purpose-driven professional to lead the development and implementation of a new Alternative Learning Service-a bold, three-tiered model designed to support secondary school pupils at risk of disengagement or exclusion. This initiative is about creating sustainable, inclusive education systems that work for every learner.

The role:

This senior-level position is instrumental in shaping and delivering high-impact programmes aimed at reducing school exclusions and improving outcomes for young people. You will bring a strong business improvement perspective to service delivery and support teams through new working methods, digital solutions, and streamlined operations.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the programme management of four core workstreams for the Alternative Learning Service:

  • Design of the service model

  • "Processes, Panels & Pathways"

  • Development of an Integrated Commissioning Framework

  • Oversight of Resources and Finances

• Supporting senior leaders with the review and optimisation of the Education Operating Model

• Briefing and engaging stakeholders across internal teams and external partners

• Providing hands-on capacity to deliver high-quality, efficient services

Essential experience and skills:

• Strong knowledge of lean and business process improvement methodologies

• You are a collaborative and efficient change-maker with a strong record in service improvement and programme delivery. Your approach is pragmatic, people-centered, and focused on outcomes.

• Experience mapping and documenting business processes, with a clear understanding of cost drivers and performance measurement

• Skilled in managing stakeholder relationships and negotiations to deliver shared objectives

• Proficiency in IT and information systems, including the ability to present data clearly and effectively

• Comfortable working to deadlines and managing multiple priorities with professionalism and focus