Senior Progamme Manager - Connecting CMB2615e

Job reference REQ Date posted 28/07/2026 Final date to receive applications 14/08/2026 Location Flexible Salary £65,872 - £68,775 Package Blank Contractual hours 37 Basis Full time Attachments Blank

Job description

This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role in shaping the future of digital connectivity across Cumbria. As a senior programme lead within the Connecting Cumbria service, you will help deliver the ambitious Cumbria Digital Infrastructure Strategy , driving projects that improve broadband, mobile connectivity and digital infrastructure for communities, businesses and public services across the region.

Working on behalf of Cumberland Council and Westmorland and Furness Council, you will lead the delivery of a diverse portfolio of high‑profile digital infrastructure projects, including supporting the nationally significant Digital Borderlands programme. You will collaborate with government departments, local authorities, funding bodies, suppliers and community stakeholders to secure investment, oversee programme delivery and ensure strategic objectives are achieved.

This role offers a unique blend of programme leadership, stakeholder engagement and technical oversight. You will manage key members of the Connecting Cumbria team, build strong partnerships with senior decision‑makers and represent the service at regional and national level. From developing business cases and securing funding through to governance reporting, supplier management and community engagement, you will have the opportunity to influence every stage of programme delivery.

If you are an experienced programme professional who thrives in a complex, partnership‑driven environment and wants to make a lasting impact on the region's digital future, this is an exceptional opportunity to lead transformational projects that will benefit Cumbria for years to come.

This role is available on a permanent basis.

We’re looking for individuals who embody our organisation's core values: ambitious, collaborative, compassionate, empowering, and innovative. We believe in the power of these values to drive positive change, deliver excellent public services and shape a better future for our communities.

We’re also about potential over perfection and we can help you grow in the role and thrive in your career.

Be sure to take a look at the post specification (below) for the essential criteria for this role.

For more information about the role or to arrange an informal chat prior to your application, please contact Michael Barry by email at

We offer a guaranteed interview to the following applicants as long as your application can demonstrate you meet the essential criteria for the role.

• Those who consider themselves disabled as defined by the Equality Act 2010
• Those in care or who have left care and are aged 24 and under
• Those who identify as a member of the British Armed Forces community (service leavers, veterans, their partners or spouses, reservists, cadets).

We’re dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. That’s why we’re a proud Disability Confident Leader and also an Age Friendly Employer – to provide opportunities for everyone to thrive.

to participate in the recruitment process, please let either the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team know by emailing  . While adjustments aren’t always guaranteed, we’ll always listen and we’ll try our best to accommodate your needs.