Location
Central London

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£71,178 per annum

About the Role
Defra is the UK government department responsible for safeguarding our natural environment, supporting our world-leading food and farming industry, and sustaining a thriving rural economy. We play a major role in people's day-to-day lives, from the food we eat and the air we breathe to the water we drink. Defra manages one of the largest and most complex portfolios in Government.

We are seeking a Portfolio Manager to join the Strategic Change Function within the Change Directorate. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a high-profile, fast-paced team delivering critical organisational change initiatives across Defra and its Arms Length Bodies.

As Portfolio Manager, you will oversee significant change initiatives that contribute to departmental or business area objectives, focusing on strengthening portfolio governance, enabling prioritisation decisions, and optimising resource allocation. You will work across all areas of Defra, supporting the efficient and effective running of the Change Portfolio and engaging with a wide range of stakeholders.

This role aligns with the Project Delivery Capability Framework (PDCF) career pathway at G7 Portfolio Manager level.

Experience
- In-depth knowledge and experience of portfolio, programme and project management (P3M) including governance, planning, scheduling, risk and issue management, and benefits management.
- Experience in resource management, business change, implementation, and asset allocation in a fast-paced environment.
- Practical experience of assurance, budgeting, and cost management.
- Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to maintain performance under challenging circumstances and motivate others.
- Good analytical skills with the ability to interpret and use large and complex data.
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to influence and challenge key stakeholders.

About you
You are a visible leader who builds commitment to a shared vision and sense of purpose. You support business areas to take decisions independently and are proactive in engaging with stakeholders to provide updates, challenge assumptions, and resolve issues. You have the ability to manage and develop a team, supporting their performance, wellbeing, and delivery of objectives.

Qualifications
Knowledge and experience of Project Management methodology supported by professional qualifications such as:
- PRINCE2 Practitioner
- Managing Portfolios Practitioner
- Managing Successful Programmes Practitioner / Advanced Practitioner
- Management of Risk Practitioner
- APM Chartered Project Professional
- APM Practitioner Qualification