Devolution Programme Director is a high-trust, high-impact role focused on shaping and delivering a new model of strategic governance for regional devolution. You will operate at the heart of regional decision-making, influencing national policy discussions and leading a high-profile programme intended to unlock long-term powers, investment, and influence for the region. Reporting to senior political and executive leadership, you will turn national devolution policy into a locally owned, future-focused reality, bringing politically astute judgement and strong consensus-building to pace-setting delivery.
In this role, you will provide strategic leadership for the devolution programme, owning the vision, roadmap, and delivery of the Foundation Strategic Authority proposition. You will design governance and operating models, including shadow arrangements, transition planning, and decision-making frameworks. You will also coordinate a multi-partner programme across unitary authorities and thematic workstreams, maintaining alignment, pace, and delivery “grip,” while providing assurance through robust reporting, evidence, and governance, supported by effective risk management.
You will be accountable for developing a compelling, evidence-led business case to Government, coordinating consultation and engagement activity, and acting as a principal advisor on devolution governance and strategic authority models. The role is well suited to candidates with proven leadership of complex, multi-organisation programmes in local government, policy, or system-wide transformation, along with strong understanding of devolution models and emerging strategic governance frameworks. You will bring credibility at senior levels, including experience advising and influencing elected members and executive leaders, and demonstrate excellent communication and collaboration skills to bring partners together behind a shared ambition.