Head Office

We're looking for an experienced Product Manager with a background in Digital and IT education or qualification development with experience of working with regulated assessment qualifications in an end point assessment or awarding organisation. This is a key role within our product team, working with internal and external stakeholders to manage the product roadmap and programme of regulatory changes to design, maintain and test assessment materials to support all assessment activities.

You'll be someone who is extremely well organised, an excellent team worker and a reliable problem-solver. You will have a creative mindset and passion for apprenticeships. You will enjoy focusing on the small details whilst keeping an eye on the bigger picture, juggling multiple priorities in a calm and confident manner.

This role also plays a key part in the quality and growth of our business, so we're looking for someone who brings credibility, authenticity, and a detail orientated, growth mindset that shares our people-first values.

What You'll Be Doing

• Managing apprenticeship assessment products through the product lifecycle
• Successfully managing the development and evolution of assessments in line with the Apprenticeship Standards and Assessment Plans, as well as the Ofqual General Conditions of Recognition.
• Focusing on customers, utilizing your extensive knowledge of the apprenticeship landscape, you will be pivotal in creating products in line with the Assessment Plans, Ofqual General Conditions, Funding Rules and apprenticeship governance.
• Maintaining appropriate competency and knowledge to support the range of assessments we offer.
• Producing high quality products on time and to budget
• Following a structured assessment design methodology and identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Identifying potential future products by reviewing product specifications and requirements, appraising new product ideas and/or product changes/updates in line with technology changes, governance and customer requirements.
• Risk assessing the viability of our products from design to delivery to ensure scalability and high quality.
• Working with SMEs and stakeholders to identify opportunities that continually challenge, enhance and improve our products.
• Managing assessment product development plans, ensuring that project plan tasks and milestones are achieved with clear and timely communication to cross-functional teams.
• Able and willing to conduct assessments across a range of Apprenticeship Standards.

What We're Looking For

You'll need to be:

• A specialist with a good understanding of Digital and IT apprenticeship standards and EPA.
• A product manager with 5+ years of experience, including a structured approach to developing new, and updating existing, online products.
• Exceptional in your understanding of the apprenticeship landscape and assessment practices.
• Able to work with, and influence, multiple stakeholders and motivate them to make informed decisions.
• Focused on having a customer-centric ethos, with an ability to manage internal and external expectations.
• Able to understand the commercial environment, providers, employers and governing bodies we operate within.
• Fluent in written English with exceptional grammar skills and outstanding written communication skills.
• Highly experienced when using technology to build online assessment, MCQs and supporting documentation.
• Able to manage multiple products and at different stages of their lifecycle.
• Technical with a strong background and ability to use technology and software to your advantage.
• Highly organised with great attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy; able to handle multiple projects and deadlines with ease.
• Able to work collaboratively, building strong relationships internally and externally.
• Experienced in working in a regulated assessment organisation.

It'd be great if you also have:

• Experience in online development and designing different learning experiences across a variety of platforms.
• An understanding of how training providers operate.
• Have a deep understanding of apprenticeships.
• Have gained your experience in B2B environments and have a strong employer network to facilitate the testing of assessment products.
• Confidence when contributing to strategic or business improvement conversations.
• Experience of using platforms, like Cisco Packet Tracer, SharePoint, Power Automate, LMS, Moodle, Classmarker and Microsoft software packages, as well as digital and content creation programmes.
• An attitude that is infectious, and genuinely passionate about making a difference in your role.

What Success Looks Like

• The implementation of new assessment materials and products on schedule and in line with the product development roadmap.
• Use of a structured assessment development methodology (in line with Skills England governance, Assessment Plans and General Conditions of Recognition). Your work will help drive high-quality outcomes and continuous improvement when developing assessment products.
• Deadline driven, flexible with an ability to act quickly to change, maintaining assessment products in line with document control register, costs within budget and timescales.
• Contributing ideas and taking initiative to improve assessment systems, processes and solutions, using the appropriate tools and platforms accurately.
• Contributing to team and organisational goals in a meaningful way, utilizing excellent communication and relationship management skills.
• Being resourceful and inquisitive and the trusted go-to person within your team and wider organization, and demonstrating you can utilise excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Stakeholders feel informed, supported and confident working with you.

Why Join Us?

At 1st for Awarding, we're a growing, purpose-driven team that genuinely cares—about our work, our people, and the impact we make. We offer flexibility, trust, and a supportive environment where your voice matters, and your ideas are heard.

Here's what else you'll get:

• Remote-first role with built-in flexibility

• Monthly co-working days (lunch included)

• 25 days' holiday + 8 bank holidays

• 8 Wellbeing Hours per year – your time to reset, reflect, or volunteer

• Flexible working, agreed up front to suit you and the business

• All the tech you need: laptop, monitor, accessories

• A company with purpose, not just process

To apply, please send your CV and a short cover letter that's specific to this role and to 1st for Awarding. The cover letter should include your experience in the apprenticeship standards outlined (IT and digital).