Principal Project Manager

Principal Project Manager

Final date to receive applications: 15 February 2026

Department: Public Transport Development

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Sheffield Head Office

Reporting To: Mark Graham

Compensation: £55,949 - £59,907 / year

• Hours: 37 hours per week (full time)
• Contract: Permanent
• Salary: Grade 12 £ 55,949 - £59,907
• Location: Sheffield (This is a hybrid role with a minimum of 3 days per week in the office)

The Mass Transit Renewal programme is a critical investment to modernise and future‑proof the region’s transit systems. Given the scale, complexity, and strategic importance of the programme, the delivery team’s capacity needs to increase.

This is an exciting time to join SYMCA as we deliver this extensive asset renewal programme to upgrade the Supertram network and ensure the trams are reliable, safe, comfortable and fit for the future. Work has started and will continue over several years to renew the tram stops, the tracks, the traction power and the control & communications systems. The tram depot will be extensively refurbished and a fleet of new trams will be built and brought into use on the network.

As we look to grow the delivery team we’re looking for three Principal Project Managers to join us. You will play a key role in driving this ambitious programme of transformational change to public transport in South Yorkshire.

You’ll lead multi‑disciplinary teams and manage large budgets to ensure projects are delivered on time and within scope. You’ll also be responsible for stakeholder engagement, governance compliance, and risk management throughout project life cycles.

Applications must be accompanied by a cover letter to detail how you meet the essential criteria for the role (please see role profile attached). Please note, all applications should be made directly via our careers portal.

Interviews will take place on Monday 2nd March 2026

Please note South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority does not hold a sponsorship licence and cannot provide Skilled Worker sponsorship for any roles advertised.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Driving a set of projects to ensure delivery against agreed funding, outputs, and timescales.
• Managing, leading and coaching a team of Project Managers.
• Identifying and managing interdependencies across the projects you are responsible for, working with others to do the same across the programme.
• Managing project budgets and ensuring robust financial control.
• Producing and maintaining accurate project documentation, including schedules, reports, risk logs, and forecasts.
• Proactively managing risks, issues, and changes to keep projects on track.
• Overseeing procurement processes, including tender documentation and contract administration.
• Building strong relationships with colleagues, stakeholders, partners, and the public, managing engagement effectively.

We’re looking for someone who has:

• Level 6 qualification, ideally in a highways, civils, transport engineering, or transport planning environment or equivalent experience.
• Practitioner‑level project management skills (Prince2 or similar) or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrable experience of managing and delivering large/and or complex projects.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands.
• Excellent communication skills, able to produce clear, concise reports and advice for diverse audiences.
• Commercial awareness.
• A proactive approach to problem‑solving and adaptability to changing circumstances.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement.

All colleagues have access to a Local Government Pension Scheme and the chance to be part of an organisation where you can really make a difference. Located in Sheffield City Centre, we are well‑placed for transport links and encourage employees to take advantage of the active travel facilities. Work/life balance is extremely important to us here at SYMCA with our recognised family/friendly policies, genuine work flexibility, recognition and shared success.

In addition to the above, some of benefits include – Holiday Entitlement

Holiday Entitlement – From 28 to 36 days annual…