Program Portfolio Manager

Shape the Future of Technology Delivery in Retail Banking

6 month initial contract with planned extensions

Edinburgh based - 1-3 days onsite per week

We are seeking an experienced Programme Portfolio Manager to play a pivotal leadership role within a growing technology organisation supporting a major retail banking environment.

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced portfolio leader who enjoys building capability, creating structure, and influencing strategic decisions. Working directly alongside senior leadership, you will help define and establish a new operating model, build high-performing teams, and provide trusted advisory support across a broad portfolio of technology and transformation initiatives.

The Role

As Programme Portfolio Manager, you will act as a strategic partner and trusted advisor to senior leadership, helping to establish and mature the portfolio management function.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Designing, shaping and implementing an effective portfolio operating model that supports ongoing growth and delivery excellence.
• Establishing governance frameworks, portfolio controls and reporting structures.
• Leading workforce planning, recruitment and onboarding activities to build and scale the capability required for future growth.
• Acting as a trusted right-hand partner to the portfolio leadership team, providing guidance, challenge and strategic insight.
• Supporting and coaching programme and delivery leads, helping them navigate complex organisational and delivery challenges.
• Driving alignment across technology, business and operational stakeholders.
• Ensuring portfolio priorities remain focused on delivering measurable business outcomes.
• Creating an environment of collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement.

About You

We're looking for a highly credible leader who combines strong programme management expertise with exceptional stakeholder engagement skills.

You'll likely bring:

• Significant experience leading complex programme portfolios within Retail Banking or Financial Services Technology environments.
• A proven track record of establishing or transforming PMO, portfolio or operating model functions.
• Experience building, scaling and leading high-performing delivery teams.
• Strong programme governance, planning and organisational management capabilities.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence audiences from delivery teams through to executive stakeholders.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills and the ability to create trust quickly.
• A calm, measured and methodical approach when managing complexity and change.
• Strong problem-solving ability with a focus on delivering practical solutions.
• A collaborative leadership style that brings people on the journey and drives engagement across diverse stakeholder groups.