Program Manager Location: Reading/Leeds/Bedford Permanent Opportunity Overview: We are seeking an experienced Programme Manager to oversee the end-to-end product development lifecycle, from inception to go-live, using Agile/hybrid methodologies. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Agile/Hybrid programme management, with the ability to create detailed plans, manage execution against timelines, collaborate effectively with offshore teams, and handle change requests (CRs) from customers. This role requires exceptional communication skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate complex project dynamics to ensure successful project delivery. Responsibilities: 1. Agile Programme Planning: Develop and maintain a comprehensive Agile programme plan, outlining sprint cycles, release milestones, and product development phases. Define project scope, objectives, and deliverables in collaboration with product owners and stakeholders. Ensure alignment of programme goals with business objectives and customer requirements. 2. Execution and Delivery: Lead and coordinate Agile teams through sprint planning, daily stand-ups, sprint reviews, and retrospectives. Monitor project progress, identifying and resolving impediments to ensure on-time delivery of features and releases. Manage dependencies, risks, and issues effectively to maintain project momentum and quality standards. 3. Offshore Team Collaboration: Work closely with offshore development teams, providing guidance, support, and ensuring alignment with programme objectives. Foster a collaborative environment across distributed teams, promoting knowledge sharing and best practices. Manage communication channels and tools to facilitate seamless collaboration and transparency. 4. Change Request Management: Act as a primary point of contact for customer change requests (CRs), assessing impacts on scope, schedule, and resources. Prioritize CRs based on business value and urgency, negotiating timelines and expectations with stakeholders. Implement change management processes to minimize disruption and ensure alignment with project goals. 5. Stakeholder Communication: Communicate regularly with stakeholders, providing updates on project status, risks, and milestones. Facilitate meetings and workshops to gather requirements, resolve issues, and solicit feedback. Manage expectations and ensure customer satisfaction through proactive engagement and responsiveness. 6. Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement: Implement Agile best practices and quality assurance processes to ensure deliverables meet quality standards and customer expectations. Conduct regular reviews and retrospectives to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions. Document lessons learned, best practices, and Agile metrics to drive continuous improvement across projects.