Programme Director - Devolution

Devolution Programme Director
Initial 6‑month contract | ASAP start
£800–£1000 per day
Inside IR35 (via umbrella)
Hybrid working

CVs are being reviewed immediately and interviews will be taking place week commencing 1st of June.

Step into a genuinely career‑defining opportunity as Devolution Programme Director, where you will operate at the heart of regional decision‑making and shape a brand‑new model of strategic governance.

Reporting into senior political and executive leadership, you will bring together complex partnerships, influence national policy discussions and lead a high‑profile programme that will unlock long‑term powers, investment and influence for the region.

This is a high‑trust, high‑impact role with visibility at the very top, giving you the platform to turn national devolution policy into a locally owned, future‑focused reality. If you thrive in politically astute environments and enjoy building consensus at pace, this is a role you will want to act on quickly.

Your role as Devolution Programme Director:

• Strategic leadership of the devolution programme, owning the vision, roadmap and delivery of the Foundation Strategic Authority proposition
• Governance and operating model design, including shadow arrangements, transition planning and decision‑making frameworks
• Multi‑partner programme coordination across unitary authorities and thematic workstreams, ensuring pace, grip and alignment
• Senior stakeholder influence with Council Leaders, Chief Executives, national departments and system partners
• Programme assurance and risk management, maintaining robust reporting, evidence and governance throughout

You will be accountable for developing a compelling, evidence‑led business case to Government, coordinating consultation and engagement activity, and acting as the principal advisor on devolution governance and strategic authority models.

Your previous experience as a Devolution Programme Director:

• Proven leadership of complex, multi‑organisation programmes within local government, policy or system‑wide transformation
• Strong understanding of devolution models, combined authorities and emerging strategic governance frameworks
• Credibility at senior level, with experience advising and influencing elected members and executive leaders
• Political awareness and judgement, enabling you to navigate sensitive environments while maintaining long‑term focus
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, bringing partners together behind a shared ambition

This contract offers flexibility with full‑time or 4‑day working considered, alongside the chance to leave a lasting legacy on regional governance. As Devolution Programme Director, you will be instrumental in shaping structures that will endure well beyond the life of the programme.

If you’re interested in discussing this opportunity in more detail, or know someone who would be a strong fit for the Devolution Programme Director role, please contact the consultant on 0117 3137110 or apply today.

We offer a senior referral scheme upon successful placement of your recommendation, so please do get in touch.

Our clients are committed to creating and evolving a diverse workforce. Recruiting decisions are based on experience and skills, and any reasonable adjustments will be fully supported throughout the recruitment process.