The Role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Programme Manager to lead our flood and coastal resilience innovation project in the Beverley Brook catchment area in Richmond upon Thames, where the over-arching objective is to use innovation to build flood resilience. 

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual with a keen interest in flood risk management using natural based solutions to join our team in the role of Flood Innovation Programme Manager.  The role will take the lead on delivering a grant funded project to apply innovative approaches to delivering flood risk management, community resilience and environmental improvements.

Project funding for the initiative ‘Flood resilience in the Beverley Brook catchment in Richmond’ runs until 2027/28, and it is on a 2-year fixed term contract initially. To find out more about the project please see Flood and coastal resilience innovation fund - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

The council’s key partners are Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust https://www.wwt.org.uk/ and Barnes Common Ltd https://barnescommon.org.uk/

We are looking for someone who is a partnership leader / project manager with the technical skills to deliver this high-profile role, with the tact, diplomacy and communication skills essential for effective partnership working. Knowledge of flood risk management using natural based solutions is essential.

You will provide the day-to-day management and set the strategic direction for the project team that consists of in-house staff, partners, consultants, academics and a wide range of stakeholders. 

You will:

• Ensure the successful delivery of the flood and coastal resilience innovation fund porgramme.
• Provide operational and motivational leadership of the project team
• Support ways of working that ensure residents and stakeholders are actively engaged.
• Provide regular progress and financial reports to project board and support the project board. 
• Advise and support senior managers and Councillors on relevant service and operational matters relating to the project.
• Ensure all Member queries about the project are dealt with promptly and effectively.

About you:

• You will have proven programme and project management skills with strong leadership.
• You will have experience of implementing effective governance arrangements to ensure timely decision making, effective risk management, and compliance with wider policies and procedures. 
• You will have experience of influencing, networking, partnership building and relationship management
• You possess sound practical Knowledge of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), Natural Flood Management (NFM) and Nature Based Solutions (NBS)

The role is based in Richmond with some flexible / agile working available. 

Please review the attached Job Profile for the full details on this varied role.

If you have the skills we are looking for and would like the challenge of taking on this unique opportunity, please follow the steps below to apply.

How to apply?

Please register, submit your CV and a supporting statement addressing how you meet the requirements of this role. If you are having difficulty in applying online, please contact the Recruitment Team on 0208 871 8825 or recruitment@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk to see if we can offer alternative arrangements for you to apply.

Why choose us?

In return, we can offer you working arrangements that will enhance your work-life balance.  These include a range of flexible working options and a generous holiday allowance of 31 days plus bank holidays.

In addition, we offer a range of staff benefits such as membership of the Local Government contributory pension scheme, childcare vouchers, new technology scheme, interest-free loans on annual travel cards, discounts at many leisure activities, restaurants, shops, and other establishments. A wide range of developmental opportunities are also offered.

Richmond and Wandsworth are currently reviewing our pay, reward and benefits framework, in partnership with Trade Union colleagues. We are developing different options that make sure we have a fair and transparent system in place.

Indicative Recruitment Timeline

Closing Date:  Sunday 18th December 2022

Shortlisting Date: Week commencing 19th December 2022

Interview Date: Week commencing Monday 2nd January  2022

Useful Information:

Please note that these dates are only indicative at this stage and could be subject to change.

The closing date is given as a guide. We reserve the right to close this vacancy once a sufficient number of applications has been received. Therefore, it is strongly advised that you complete and return your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils are committed to making our recruitment practices as inclusive as possible for everyone. We are committed to promoting equality and diversity and developing a culture that values differences, recognising that employees from a variety of backgrounds bring important and positive contributions to the Councils and can improve the way we deliver services. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer.

Important Information:

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils