Interim Project Manager – SEND Reform (3-Month Rolling Contract)

Location: The Crescent, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 4DY

Rate: £500 per day (Umbrella)

Contract: 3-Month Rolling Contract

Working Pattern: Hybrid – 2 Days On-Site / 3 Days Remote

Additional Requirement: Participation in workshops, stakeholder events, and partnership meetings as needed

Summary

We are seeking a seasoned Interim Project Manager to spearhead the delivery of Somerset's ambitious SEND Reform Programme. This pivotal role involves driving the implementation of the Experts at Hand (EAH) Locality Model across educational settings and supporting the broader SEND Improvement Programme for children and young people aged 0-25. The position requires collaboration with a diverse multi-agency partnership, engaging with education providers, Council services, NHS partners, Parent Carers, and young people to ensure the successful achievement of key SEND reform priorities and programme goals.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the initiation and execution of SEND Reform projects throughout Somerset.
  
• Propel the implementation of the Experts at Hand (EAH) Locality Delivery Model.
  
• Formulate and manage project plans, milestones, risks, dependencies, and reporting systems.
  
• Ensure robust programme governance and reporting structures are established.
  
• Cultivate and sustain strong relationships with schools, educational settings, NHS partners, and SEND stakeholders.
  
• Coordinate programme communications, engagement activities, evaluation, and performance reporting.
  
• Assist in recruitment activities related to programme delivery.
  
• Handle procurement, commissioning, and contract management tasks as necessary.
  
• Collaborate closely with the SEND Reform Partnership Board and key delivery partners to ensure successful implementation.
  
• Track project progress and identify opportunities for enhancement and service development.
  

Essential

Requirements:

• Demonstrated project management experience within complex public sector programmes.
  
• Relevant Project Management qualification or equivalent experience.
  
• Strong skills in stakeholder engagement and partnership collaboration.
  
• Proven experience in delivering SEND Improvement or SEND Reform projects.
  
• Experience working across multi-agency environments, including education, health, and local government partners.
  
• Proficiency in managing programme governance, reporting, risks, and delivery plans.
  
• Experience in supporting recruitment, commissioning, procurement, and contract management activities.
  
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and influencing abilities.
  
• Capability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results within tight deadlines.
  

Desirable

• Experience working within Local Authority SEND Services.
  
• Knowledge of current SEND legislation, reforms, and improvement programmes.
  
• Experience in delivering transformation programmes within education, children's services, or health sectors.
  
• Understanding of partnership-based programme delivery models.
  

What's on Offer?

• £500 per day (Umbrella)
  
• 3-Month Rolling Contract
  
• Hybrid Working – 3 Days Remote / 2 Days On-Site
  
• Location: Taunton, Somerset
  
• Opportunity to lead high-profile SEND improvement projects.
  
• Engage with senior stakeholders across education, health, and local government.
  
• Contribute to meaningful improvements in outcomes for children and young people with SEND.
  
• Potential for contract extension.
  

Ideal for candidates with experience as a Project Manager, SEND Project Manager, Programme Manager, Transformation Manager, Change Manager, Education Project Manager, SEND Improvement Lead, or Children's Services Programme Manager.