Job Description

Overview

Have you successfully run and developed Project Management Office (PMO) functions using agile and waterfall methodologies? Can you lead a high-performing PMO, driving consistency and excellence across a complex IT portfolio? Do you thrive on autonomy, managing resources, budgets, and risks while shaping delivery strategy and methodology?

If so, we’d love to hear from you!

We are seeking a Head of Project Management Office (PMO) to join the Information Technology Directorate at the Maritime Coastguard Agency. The PMO is responsible for delivering digital solutions that support the agency’s operations. The PMO provides leadership, integration, and oversight of project processes, resource management, and financial reporting, led by the Head of IT Delivery Management. It supports delivery teams with best practice guidance, training, and tools like Planview PPM and MS Project enabling efficient tracking and performance improvement.

Joining our department comes with many benefits, including:

• Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary. Read more about Civil Service Pensions here
• 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave), plus 8 bank holidays and a privilege day for the King’s birthday
• Flexible working options where we encourage a great work-life balance.

Read more in the Benefits section below!

Find out more about what it’s like working at: Maritime and Coastguard Agency - Department for Transport Careers

Responsibilities

As the Head of IT PMO, you will lead the function, driving consistency and excellence across the IT Directorate’s project delivery. The role oversees project planning, governance, resource management, and financial reporting, while embedding best practice methodologies. Acting as a strategic enabler, the postholder empowers teams through training and advice, ensuring tools and processes are in place to support successful delivery across multiple interrelated projects, programmes, and portfolios.

Your responsibilities will include, but aren’t limited to:

• Lead and evolve the IT PMO function, ensuring continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Manage daily PMO activities, tools, and methodologies to support consistent project delivery.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance PMO capability and influence across IT.
• Own MCA’s project delivery methodology and ensure alignment with organisational objectives.
• Provide expert training and guidance to IT teams on tools, processes, and best practices.
• Oversee resource planning, governance, and performance reporting across the IT portfolio.
• Ensure robust project planning, risk and issue management, and benefit tracking.
• Lead the PMO team and contribute to the wider IT Directorate’s success and delivery goals.

For roles with line management responsibility:

Great line management is important to us as an organisation, and we will equip and support line managers to develop the skills they need. We aim to empower line managers to create teams where people can flourish and deliver excellent outcomes for the public.

For further information on the role, please read the role profile. Please note that the role profile is for information purposes only — whilst all elements are relevant to the role, they may not all be assessed during the recruitment process. This job advert will detail exactly what will be assessed during the recruitment process.