Programme Manager

National Oceanography Centre, Southampton Fixed Term Appointment (2 years) Full time (37 hours per week)£54, 047 Who are we? We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground-breaking research, collaboration, and game-changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish. We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes. The ocean has the potential to provide the solutions to so many of the social, economic and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture. Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation. About the role The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) is investing in the future of the UK’s marine science capability through the Future Marine Research Infrastructure (FMRI) programme ( This transformative programme will harness cutting-edge capabilities to deliver world-class research infrastructure that enables marine science to serve society’s need to observe and understand the ocean. As Programme Manager, you will play a pivotal role in delivering the shoreside infrastructure component of this transformation. Hosted by the NOC, you will lead the design and delivery activities across 2-3 UK sites, working closely with consultants, suppliers and strategic partners. Your responsibilities will include driving progress through the RIBA Plan of Work (Stages 0-7), managing sensitive stakeholder relationships, and ensuring projects are set up for success. Regular travel for site visits and programme meetings will be required. This is an opportunity to apply your expertise in the built environment sector while bringing your transferable project management skills to a high-profile, complex programme that supports the UK’s marine science capability. About you We are looking for an experienced project professional with a strong track record in the built environment sector and a deep understanding of the RIBA Plan of Work, someone who has proven experience leading built environment projects through the full lifecycle in complex, multi-stakeholder environments. You will have strong communications skills and be able to navigate sensitive stakeholder relationships to facilitate collaborative delivery with NERC’s strategic partners. You will also have confidence in applying core project management competencies beyond your specialist area to support wider programme objectives. Knowledge and interest in delivering sustainable projects is a desirable skill. Why NOC? We offer a generous set of benefits, including: - 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays - a 10% employer contribution pension scheme - financial support for relocation - access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues - access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards - a Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories - a great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations - we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer Location This position will be based in The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points. We have a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below. This position will involve regular national travel for site visits and programme meetings Submitting an application Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07955 851648. Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification. We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard. Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic. There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability. NOC is an Investors in People organisation. Date advert posted: 6 November 2025. Closing date: 4 December 2025. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants. Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.