Coordinating multiple projects is a lot of responsibility, and would require a superb candidate to take on the role.
So don’t let a shoddy CV tank your chances of earning this highly rewarding and fulfilling role. This guide, complete with top tips and a Programme Manager CV example, will help you craft an application that secures your next leadership role.
Programme Manager CV example
How to write your Programme Manager CV
Learn how to create your own interview-winning Programme Manager CV with this simple step-by-step guide.
This guide will walk you through writing a Programme Manager CV that showcases your strategic thinking and leadership skills, and how they’ve come together to deliver complex programmes successfully. By the end, you’ll have a CV that positions you as the ideal candidate for any organisation.
Programme Manager CV structure
Your CV needs to be as structured and efficient as the programmes you manage. Recruiters must quickly see your qualifications and track record of delivering results: a good structure makes this task as easy as it can be.
Here’s how to structure your Programme Manager CV:
- Name and contact details – Keep these at the top for immediate access. A photo is always optional.
- CV profile – Provide a concise summary of your leadership and experience.
- Core skills – Highlight your strengths, such as risk mitigation, stakeholder management, and resource optimisation.
- Work experience – Detail your professional history in reverse chronological order, focusing on key achievements.
- Education – Include academic qualifications and certifications relevant to programme management.
- Additional info – Optionally, mention professional memberships or interests that demonstrate your expertise and ongoing passion for the role.
Programme Manager CV format
This might surprise you, but recruiters don’t actually enjoy reading through hundreds of applications. Your one should be as easy to read as possible: trust me, the recruiter will appreciate it.
A well-organised CV reflects the professionalism and clarity you bring to programme management. Even with stellar content, poor formatting can derail your chances.
Here’s some tips on how to format your Programme Manager CV:
- Bullet points – Use these to present responsibilities and achievements concisely.
- Divide sections – Clear headings make it easy for recruiters to navigate your CV.
- Use a professional font – Stick to a clean, readable typeface with a consistent layout.
- No more than 2 pages – Keep it focused while providing enough detail to showcase your expertise.
Programme Manager CV profile
Your CV profile is your chance to summarise your expertise and capture the recruiter’s attention. For a Programme Manager, it’s where you demonstrate how you’ve led programmes to success and aligned projects with organisational strategy.
Programme Manager CV profile examples
Profile 1
Organised Programme Manager with six years of experience in the technology sector, specialising in delivering complex software development projects. Skilled in Agile methodologies, stakeholder management, and risk mitigation. Proficient in using Jira, Confluence, and MS Project to track progress and ensure timely delivery.
Profile 2
Dedicated Programme Manager with four years in the healthcare industry, focusing on overseeing organisational change initiatives and improving service delivery. Experienced in budget management, cross-functional team leadership, and ensuring alignment with strategic goals. Skilled in using Prince2 principles for structured programme delivery.
Profile 3
Proficient Programme Manager with over eight years in financial services, managing multimillion-pound portfolios and driving process improvements. Expertise in resource allocation, performance tracking, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Experienced in using Tableau and Power BI for reporting and programme insights.
What to include in your Programme Manager CV profile
Take a good look at the job description, and make sure you tailor the things you mention here to the particular industry and job you’re looking at. Remember, you want to convince the recruiter to read on.
Here’s what to include in your Programme Manager CV profile:
- Where you’ve worked – Mention industries or organisations where you’ve managed programmes, along with the level of experience you’ve got.
- Your top qualifications – Highlight certifications like MSP, PRINCE2, or PMP.
- Specialised skills – Include abilities like risk management, strategic planning, and cross-functional team leadership.
- Programme scope – Reference the types of programmes you’ve managed, such as digital transformation or organisational change.
- People you’ve worked with – Note things like the size of your team, and who it consisted of.
- Stakeholder collaboration – Showcase your experience working with executives, clients, and cross-departmental teams.
Core skills section
The core skills section is your CV’s quick-reference guide, giving recruiters an instant overview of the abilities that’ll make you the perfect Programme Manager.
Why does this matter? It’s your chance to highlight the skills that prove you can handle complex programmes with precision and efficiency – essential qualities in a Programme Manager.
Top skills for your Programme Manager CV
- Strategic Programme Planning – Developing frameworks to align projects with organisational goals.
- Risk Assessment and Mitigation – Identifying potential challenges and implementing strategies to address them.
- Stakeholder Management – Building relationships and aligning expectations across all levels of the organisation.
- Resource Allocation – Optimising people, budgets, and tools for maximum efficiency and impact.
- Budget Oversight – Managing financial resources to ensure programmes are delivered within budget constraints.
- Change Management – Guiding teams through transitions to ensure successful adoption of new processes or systems.
- Portfolio Management – Overseeing multiple projects to ensure cohesion and alignment with strategic objectives.
- Data-Driven Decision Making – Using KPIs and metrics to monitor programme progress and adjust strategies as needed.
- Conflict Resolution – Addressing issues between teams or stakeholders to maintain programme momentum.
- Compliance and Governance – Ensuring all programme activities adhere to organisational and regulatory standards.
Work experience
Now for the bulk of your CV: your work experience section is where you prove your ability to deliver large-scale programmes successfully. Focus on your leadership roles, the scope of your programmes, and the measurable outcomes you achieved.
List your roles in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position.
How to structure jobs
- Outline – Provide an overview of the organisation, your role, and the scope of your programme management responsibilities.
- Responsibilities – Highlight tasks like aligning projects, managing cross-functional teams, or mitigating risks. Use action verbs like “coordinated,” “delivered,” or “streamlined.”
- Achievements – Quantify your successes with metrics such as budget savings and successful programme delivery rates. Numbers always leave a lasting impression!
Example jobs for Programme Manager
Programme Manager | Futurism Inc
Outline
Managed a portfolio of software development projects for a leading tech firm, ensuring alignment with client goals and business objectives. Focused on delivering high-quality products on time and within budget.
Responsibilities
- Defined programme scope, objectives, and success criteria in collaboration with stakeholders.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams to deliver projects using Agile methodologies.
- Monitored programme progress, managing risks and resolving issues to ensure smooth execution.
- Maintained detailed project schedules and reported progress to senior leadership.
- Ensured resource availability and allocation across multiple concurrent projects.
Achievements
- Delivered a £2M software programme three weeks ahead of schedule, exceeding client expectations.
- Reduced delivery time by 20% by implementing a new Agile workflow process.
- Improved stakeholder satisfaction by 30% through consistent communication and progress updates.
Programme Director | Bristol NHS Trust
Outline
Oversaw organisational transformation programmes for a regional healthcare provider, ensuring alignment with NHS guidelines and improved patient outcomes. Focused on streamlining operations and implementing new technologies.
Responsibilities
- Led the delivery of multiple change initiatives, including IT system upgrades and process improvements.
- Managed programme budgets exceeding £5M, ensuring cost-effective resource allocation.
- Engaged with stakeholders across departments to gather requirements and secure buy-in.
- Monitored key performance indicators to assess programme impact and success.
- Prepared detailed reports for the board of directors and external regulators.
Achievements
- Achieved a 15% improvement in service efficiency by implementing new workflows.
- Delivered a system upgrade project six weeks ahead of schedule, reducing downtime by 30%.
- Secured additional funding for a £1M programme by presenting a compelling business case.
Programme Coordinator | Oakly Finances
Outline
Directed strategic initiatives for a multinational financial services firm, managing large-scale programmes aimed at process optimisation and regulatory compliance. Ensured delivery of projects within scope and deadlines.
Responsibilities
- Defined programme objectives and developed detailed implementation plans.
- Monitored programme budgets, ensuring adherence to financial constraints and targets.
- Facilitated communication between stakeholders, ensuring alignment across teams.
- Implemented robust risk management strategies to mitigate project delays and issues.
- Provided regular updates and performance reports to C-suite executives and board members.
Achievements
- Delivered a regulatory compliance programme on time, avoiding potential fines of £500K.
- Reduced operational costs by 12% through process improvement initiatives.
- Increased team productivity by 20% by introducing a new project management tool.
Education section
The education section demonstrates the qualifications and training that underpin your programme management expertise. Include degrees, certifications, and any relevant professional development.
For experienced candidates, this section can be brief, focusing on key qualifications. For those newer to the field, expand this section by including coursework, projects, or internships that demonstrate your potential.
List qualifications in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.
Best qualifications for Programme Managers
- MSP (Managing Successful Programmes) Certification – Demonstrates expertise in managing complex, multi-project programmes.
- PMP (Project Management Professional) Certification – Highlights advanced skills in project and programme management.
- PRINCE2 Practitioner Certification – Validates structured project and programme management expertise.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Business or Project Management – Provides a strong foundation in organisational leadership.
- Lean Six Sigma Certification – Demonstrates proficiency in improving processes and ensuring operational efficiency.