Head of Programmes
Norfolk Rivers Trust’s ambition is to deliver catchment-scale change to our water environment. We are dedicated to protecting our watercourses from pollution, improving habitat and ecological functioning of streams and rivers, and enhancing resilience to climate change. Since our founding in 2011, the Trust has grown to a team of over 30 employees. Together, we are delivering major projects such as river re-meandering and floodplain connections, farming and land management advice, new constructed wetlands, species re-introductions and community engagement. Job Description: We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head of Programmes to lead and oversee the Trust’s wide range of programmes and projects. This senior role will involve strategic leadership, project management, and working with team leaders to ensure the successful delivery of initiatives that protect and restore the rivers and catchments of Norfolk. Additionally, the role involves supporting our trading arm, Rivers Ecology, in delivering a range of commercial projects both in Norfolk and further afield. The Head of Programmes will play a key role in shaping the direction of the Trust’s work, securing funding, and building partnerships with stakeholders across the public, private, and voluntary sectors. This role involves close collaboration with our brilliant team leaders to support the delivery of a range of projects, from design and feasibility stages to the practical delivery of river restoration initiatives and farm-based projects aimed at improving soil and water quality. Another key aspect of the role will involve supporting both the Education and Engagement Team and the Communications and Media Team in their excellent outreach efforts. The role will be part of the Senior Management Team, consisting of a Chief Executive, Head of Finance, Head of Operations and Technical Director. It will involve providing weekly and monthly updates on programme delivery to the team, as well as reporting to the board of trustees when required. Principal Responsibilities: Leadership Develop and implement the Trust’s strategy in alignment with the overall organisational goals through programme delivery.Lead the planning, delivery, and evaluation of major programmes and initiatives focused on river and catchment restoration, farming and land management, biodiversity, education and engagement, species, GIS and data and communications.Provide reciprocal coverage for operations and programme related tasks in collaboration with the Head of Operations as required.Provide leadership and guidance to the teams, ensuring effective coordination, motivation, and professional development.Work with the CEO and other senior leaders to refine and deliver the Trust’s strategic vision, including the identification of new opportunities and potential challenges. Programme Management: Oversee the design, implementation, and monitoring of projects, ensuring that they are delivered on time, within budget, and meet agreed-upon outcomes.Adapt, review and maintain a project management system for use across the trust with the Head of Operations.Ensure the effective use of resources and the application of best practices in programme delivery.Work closely with the team to provide monitoring and evaluation information to assess the impact and outcomes of programmes, using data to inform future strategies and improve programme delivery.Provide regular updates to the Senior Management Team on project delivery and pipeline project progress. Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain relationships with a range of stakeholders, including farmers and land owners, local authorities, government agencies, community groups, funders, and corporate partners.Represent the Trust at external events, forums, and conferences, advocating for the critical importance of protecting and enhancing the water environment.Seek out and develop new funding opportunities to support programme expansion, including public and private sector funding, as well as charitable and grant-making bodies. Financial Management: Develop and manage programme budgets, ensuring effective financial oversight and the ability to track and report on programme expenditure.Oversee individual grant agreements of up to £1 million and a portfolio of projects valued at a minimum of £3 million annually.Work with the CEO and Finance Team to ensure that programme funding is sourced, allocated, and reported according to best practice. Team Development: Work with the Head of Operations to provide leadership, mentorship, and support to Team Leaders and staff, ensuring they have the skills and resources necessary for success.Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and dynamic team culture with all the departments. Communications: Contribute to the Trust’s communications strategy, ensuring that programme successes are effectively promoted and publicised through a range of resources including digital channels, reports, and stakeholder updates.Represent the Trust in meetings with external stakeholders, local authorities, and government agencies, including catchment partnerships. Person Specification: Education and Qualifications Minimum qualification of an HND/BSc in Ecology, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Land Management, Project Management or Business Management or related subject.Project Management Qualification such as Prince 2 or APM. Experience and knowledge Essential: Clear commitment to the vision and values of Norfolk Rivers Trust.Strong leadership skills with a track record of managing and inspiring teams in a multi-disciplinary setting.Extensive experience in planning, project management, and programme delivery, with proven expertise in managing large-scale programmes and projects from conception through to successful completion.Knowledge and experience of securing funding from diverse sources, including government grants, charitable foundations, and private/corporate sector partnerships.Strong financial management and experience of overseeing budget spend.Excellent communication skills.Ability to build and maintain relationships with partners and stakeholders.Good organisational and report writing skills.Experience using Microsoft Office suite.Awareness of the need for confidentiality and sensitivity.Full UK driving licence with own car covered by business insurance is essential.Passion for the water environment and river catchment management.The right to work in the UK. Desirable: Knowledge of GIS.Experience of working for an environmental charity or consultancy. Applications: To apply, please send your completed Job application form, Equal opportunities monitoring information and a covering letter/email to ceo@norfolkriverstrust.org by 23.59 on Monday 14th April 2025. 1st interviews: Week commencing 28th April 2025 2nd Interviews: Week commencing 12th May 2025 If you have any questions regarding this role, please contact: Ed Bramham-Jones, CEO, on ed@norfolkriverstrust.org or 07788 377617. Website: norfolkriverstrust.org
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