Group Director Strategic Projects & Business Improvement

We are seeking a highly capable and experienced Project Manager to lead strategic business improvement initiatives and business-critical projects. This is a pivotal role within a large and complex organisation, operating under a matrix structure to ensure consistency and quality across all areas.

You will bring relevant qualifications and demonstrable experience, along with the drive and determination to make a meaningful impact. A confident and effective communicator, you will be adept at building professional relationships and working collaboratively to achieve individual, team and organisational goals.

Responsibilities

• Leading strategic projects and business improvement initiatives that deliver measurable organisational benefits – reducing workload, error rates, and costs.
• Owning and evolving the college-wide Project Management Framework, embedding consistency and Lean principles across all campuses.
• Driving sustainability and carbon reduction strategies, including milestone tracking, reporting, and regular strategy renewal.
• Supporting strategic priorities through project planning, funding applications, and change management aligned with the college’s Strategic Intent.
• Managing budgets, risks, and reporting for key projects, ensuring efficient delivery and continuous improvement.
• Collaborating with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to embed a culture of innovation, performance, and student-first service.
• Representing the college at promotional and recruitment events, and contributing to a positive campus environment through leadership and duty management.

About New City College

New City College is an outstanding, sector-leading further education college. One of the largest colleges in the country, with proven expertise across curriculum areas as well as initiatives including sustainability and practitioner-led research. Since 2016, NCC has grown through mergers, and our business processes are aligned, efficient and fit for purpose. You will work closely with a small team of Business Analysts and Project Managers, and in collaboration with colleagues across our management team, to ensure our operational processes support the college’s core mission: delivering outstanding outcomes for our students.

At New City College, we work with purpose, accountability and a shared commitment to excellence. This is an on-site role, based at one of our campuses, where we work together as one team with students at the heart of everything we do. Your contributions will be valued and your achievements recognised.

What We Offer

• Pension: New City College provides a career average pension scheme for all staff. Support staff (such as this role) fall under the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Accessibility: All college sites are easily accessible for wheelchair users and via public transport (bus, DLR, or tube).
• On-Site Facilities: Free access to on-site gym facilities at some campuses and on-site cafes serving subsidised food and drinks.
• Staff Development: Five CPD (Continuing Professional Development) days per year, with access to industry-standard facilities and a collaborative working environment. Leading to opportunities for career advancement and professional development in a supportive setting.
• Financial Perks: Interest-free loans for annual travel season tickets. Health cash plan (reimbursement for dental, optical, and therapy treatments) and a completely confidential Employee assistance programme.
• Discounts: Save money on day-to-day expenses, shopping, dining out, DIY, and travel.

Find Out More

See the job description for an outline of the role, which will evolve and develop in line with organisational and external drivers and priorities. For an informal discussion about the role or for further information about the application and section process, contact Human Resources on 020 7510 7712 or email recruitment@ncclondon.ac.uk. To apply, please upload your CV and Personal Statement of no more than 2 sides of A4. The closing date is a guide; applications are encouraged early to avoid disappointment.

About New City College

New City College is proud to be an Ofsted Outstanding college, the largest in England to receive this top rating. With campuses across east London, south-west Essex, and two language schools, we are a sector leader in further education. We are committed to investing in our people and resources to provide an excellent, supportive learning environment that meets the needs of students and employers. We actively welcome applications from diverse backgrounds and are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. All staff will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check where applicable.

We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and actively welcome applications from candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds. This does not preclude any other candidate with or without a protected characteristic from applying for our jobs.

As the College supports a number of children and vulnerable adults, all staff are exempt from Section 4(2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All staff will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check, along with a check of the Children’s Barred List if engaged in regulated activity. Any offers of appointment may be withdrawn if these checks prove unsatisfactory. Self-disclosure will be required as part of the recruitment process. The College’s DBS policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders is available upon request.