INTERNAL ONLY
Location: Westmorland and Furness Council office, Kendal, Penrith or Barrow-in-FurnessContract Type: 2-year fixed term (internal transfer)
About this opportunity
We are seeking an experienced Programme Manager with a strong background in Adult Social Care to support and lead consultation activity within Care Services, alongside wider service improvement and transformation work. This is a hands-on role that combines programme leadership with practical delivery.
Working closely with the programme’s Senior Responsible Officer, you will lead the development and delivery of a complex transformation programme that drives improvement, integration and new ways of working across services. This is a senior role requiring strong leadership, the ability to challenge constructively, and a clear focus on delivering sustainable, customer‑focused change.
You will work with service leaders, elected members, partners and trade unions to take programmes from design through to implementation and benefits realisation. You will oversee programme governance, manage project delivery, lead and develop a programme team, and ensure effective communication and stakeholder engagement throughout.
Who we are looking for…
We’re looking for a driven, enthusiastic candidate, with a proven track record of delivering large‑scale programmes in complex, politically led organisations and experience leading cultural and behavioural change.
Strong communication, influencing and analytical skills are essential, along with the ability to manage multiple priorities and build effective relationships at all levels.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of Adult Social Care and making a real difference to the people and our communities across Westmorland and Furness. We’d like to hear more about you, your motivations, interests and values on your application, including what attracted you to this role and how you feel your values align with Adult Social Care.
What can we offer you!
Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes. For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council and what we can offer you, please visit our Careers site. Our benefits | Careers (westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk)
Would you like to find out more?
For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the below attachments:
If you have any queries about this role or would like an informal chat about this opportunity, then please contact Nikkie Phipps on 07812972965
Application and Interview information
Closing date: 6th May 2026
Interview date: 12th May 2026
We are currently operating both in-person and virtual interviews. Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.
If you experience any technical difficulties applying for this role, please contact the HR Systems Team at HR.Systems@cumbria.gov.uk.
Safer Recruitment & DBS
At Westmorland and Furness Council we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and we expect all workers, employees and volunteers to share our commitment.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Westmorland and Furness Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone and work to promote an inclusive, supportive culture that values and celebrates our differences.
As a Disability Confident Leader, disabled applicants, who meet the essential criteria of this job, are guaranteed an interview.
We also offer guaranteed interviews to Armed Forces personnel and veterans and those in care or care experienced and under 24 years old (someone who has been looked after by a local authority at any point, for any length of time, e.g. foster care, residential care, or under the guardianship of a local authority) that meet the essential criteria for the role.
