Programme Development Officer

Programme Development Officer

Location: Chesterfield, East Midlands
Employment Status: Permanent

Salary: £39,152 - £44,075

About the Role

This is a defining moment for transport in the East Midlands. As the region's Local Transport Authority, EMCCA is at the forefront of shaping a bold, future-focused Mayor's Transport Plan - driving forward a transformational investment programme worth over £2 billion. This is more than infrastructure; it's a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine how people connect, travel, and thrive across the region.

We are seeking a Programme Development Officer to lead and support the development of strategic transport schemes and programmes. This role will focus on scheme design and development, and ensuring that projects are robust, deliverable, and aligned with regional priorities.

Working closely with the Programme Development Manager and stakeholders across the organisation and beyond, you will contribute to turning strategic ambition into investable, impactful projects.

Our region is home to award-winning bus companies, an established tram system, the HQ of the new GB Railways, and birthplace of the first workplace parky levy in Europe - this is a region with both track record and vision.

Key Responsibilities

Support the development of strategic transport schemes, ensuring alignment with Local Transport Plan objectives and expected outcomes
Lead and contribute to the preparation of strategic economic appraisals and Strategic Outline Cases (SOC)
Work with constituent authorities and delivery partners to build capacity and capability for scheme delivery
Maintain and develop strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support programme development
Commission and manage feasibility studies, and contribute to the design, scoping and cost estimation of transport schemes
Act as client project manager for externally delivered projects and studies, ensuring outputs meet required standards
Monitor funding allocations and programme expenditure to ensure value for money and effective use of resources
Use data and evidence to inform project development and support decision-making
Contribute to the preparation of funding bids and procurement activities
Integrate decarbonisation objectives into transport programmes and project development
Support knowledge sharing and collaboration across teams and departments
Provide mentoring and guidance to junior staff, supporting their professional development
Represent EMCCA at meetings, industry events, and stakeholder forums
Stay informed of emerging industry trends, policy developments and best practiceLeadership Responsibilities

Where applicable, the role includes:

Providing guidance and mentorship to team members, fostering a supportive and high-performing environment
Supporting staff development and performance through coaching and feedback
Encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing across teams
Supporting effective planning and allocation of team resourcesAbout You

We are looking for a skilled and proactive transport professional with strong experience in programme development, project delivery and economic appraisal. Please note, you do not need to meet every requirement to apply - if you feel you'd be a good fit, we encourage you to put in an application.

Essential Skills and Experience:

Strong understanding of transport investment programmes and how they align with long-term strategic objectives
Proven experience in project management methodologies and programme development
Experience in preparing or contributing to economic appraisals and Strategic Outline Cases
Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with experience working across public sector organisations and partnerships
Ability to analyse data and apply insights to support decision-making and scheme development
Experience identifying and managing risks in complex projects
Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver to deadlines
Understanding of transport planning policy, regulatory frameworks and government guidanceDesirable:

Experience in budgeting, cost estimation and financial planning for infrastructure projects
Experience working within a political or public sector environment
Ability to develop innovative solutions to complex transport challenges
Experience mentoring or supporting junior staffQualifications

Degree (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline such as transport planning, engineering, economics or geography
Certification in project management (e.g. PRINCE2, PMP) is desirable
Membership of a relevant professional body is desirableWhy Join EMCCA

This role offers the opportunity to play a key part in developing the next generation of transport schemes across the East Midlands. You will contribute to shaping how major investment is translated into deliverable, high-impact projects.

EMCCA offers a collaborative and forward-thinking environment, with a strong focus on evidence-led decision-making, innovation and partnership working. You will gain exposure to major programmes and projects while developing your professional expertise.

Benefits

Up to 10 days paid leave in a 12-month period for caring responsibilities
Healthcare cash plan
A hybrid work model with remote working opportunities
Local Government Pension Scheme
Flexible working hours
Maternity, Paternity, IVF, Adopters and Foster Carers support
Discount scheme
Car Benefit Scheme
Cycle to Work Scheme
30 days holiday (plus 2 with continuous service) + bank holidays + your birthday (up to five extra days through salary sacrifice)
Costco Membership
Discounted Gym Membership
Professional Membership Scheme
Car Parking Discounts
Car Sharing SchemeOur Values

We lift our regionWe always put the prosperity of the East Midlands region and its people first when carrying our roles and achieving strategic outcomes
We work togetherWe always challenge each other to be exceptional, embracing collaboration and acting to lift rather than win, working as one team
We make an impactWe always make decisions that are evidence led and which strengthen our region systemically. We hold ourselves to account for our actions
We are humanWe always take pride in who we are and the diversity we bring, communicating authentically and showing genuine interest in one anotherAbout EMCCA

EMCCA is committed to delivering long-term, system-wide impact for the people, businesses and places of the East Midlands. Through devolution, the organisation has secured significant investment and responsibility, creating a unique opportunity to transform transport across the region.

With a strong pipeline of programmes and projects, this is a critical time to contribute to shaping the region's future.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) is at the heart of everything EMCCA do. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered, regardless of background or identity.

EMCCA is a Disability Confident organisation, committed to inclusive recruitment and supporting people with disabilities to thrive in the workplace. We also support the Care Leavers Covenant, recognising the challenges faced by care-experienced individuals and providing opportunities and support to help them succeed.

How to Apply

If you are a motivated and capable professional looking to develop your career in transport programme development and contribute to impactful regional investment, we encourage you to apply now to join our client's dedicated team within the East Midlands Combined County Authority.

Reach out to the team at Matchtech