Principal Delivery Lead

Permanent - Full time opportunityPrevious Public Sector & Consultancy experience essentialRemote-first opportunity - travel across UK expected A highly experienced Senior Delivery Manager is sought to lead the successful delivery of innovative digital services and platforms that meet user needs and deliver measurable business outcomes. This role requires a proven leader who can balance governance, quality standards, and commercial accountability while empowering teams to perform at their best. The Senior Delivery Manager will play a pivotal role in shaping project vision, ensuring outcomes are achieved for clients, and driving continuous improvement across large-scale digital transformation programmes. Key ResponsibilitiesDelivery ExcellenceDefine and communicate the vision for each project, ensuring agreed outcomes are achieved for both clients and stakeholders.Establish and monitor critical success factors that extend beyond traditional metrics such as budget, scope, and timelines.Drive profitability targets, forecasting accuracy, and timely reporting of key project variables (revenue, staffing, debt, work in progress).Develop strategies to deliver added value, proactively manage client expectations, and resolve issues effectively.Build a high-performing culture by motivating and empowering teams, setting clear goals, and ensuring regular feedback and appraisals.Manage resourcing, onboarding of new team members, and act as the escalation point for project or people-related issues.Foster collaborative relationships with clients, suppliers, and third-party stakeholders. Governance & QualityImplement effective governance frameworks and technical quality standards across the project lifecycle.Partner with assurance teams to conduct health checks, risk assessments, and follow-up actions.Ensure full compliance with confidentiality, data security, and non-disclosure requirements. Business Development & Client GrowthCollaborate with Sales and Account Management to identify new opportunities, shape innovative client solutions, and position the organisation to win new business.Showcase project successes internally and externally through case studies, award submissions, and thought leadership.Take accountability for contracts and commercial terms, safeguarding the organisation from risk. Leadership & Professional GrowthLead continuous improvement initiatives in management and leadership practices.Align delivery with best practice in technology, experience design, and consulting.Champion innovation in digital technology and delivery processes.Support recruitment and talent development to enable sustainable organisational growth. Essential Experience & Qualifications5+ years managing complex, technology-driven projects using agile methodologies, including digital transformation programmes (mobile and web applications).Strong consultancy background with at least 5 years in client-facing roles across public sector/government projects.Proven expertise in governance, managing budgets of £1M+, and reporting to senior stakeholders.Track record of developing new business opportunities and driving client account growth.Sector experience in at least one vertical such as technology, healthcare, or government.Demonstrated responsibility for contracts and commercial project terms.Ability to make critical decisions under pressure while balancing client demands. Desirable:Experience leading distributed, multi-supplier agile teams on large-scale digital projects.Knowledge of user research, analytics, and design disciplines within digital delivery.Evidence of securing significant follow-on business with existing clients.Recognition for thought leadership or improvement of leadership practices.Current, recognised Project or Programme Management certification. Skills & AttributesExceptional leadership with the ability to inspire, motivate, and empower teams.Strong commercial acumen and understanding of complex project dynamics.Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills, with credibility at all levels.Clear communicator with confidence in formal presentations and client engagement.Team-oriented, collaborative, and resilient in challenging delivery environments.Flexible and adaptable, with a willingness to travel when required.Visionary mindset with a drive for innovation and a commitment to delivering industry firsts.