Head of Program Management

About the Role

Bus Éireann seeks a seasoned senior leader to oversee multiple large-scale enterprise projects simultaneously, bridging the gap between strategic goals and effective delivery. This pivotal position reports directly to the Chief Transformation Officer (CTO) and collaborates closely with the Senior Leadership Team to prioritize, govern, and resource strategic initiatives aligned with the Horizon 28 transformation agenda.

The Head of Program Management drives organizational transformation by ensuring projects are strategically aligned, benefits are realized, and continuous improvement is embedded across all business functions. The role includes establishing robust program governance, change management, performance monitoring, and fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.

Responsibilities

• Translate organization-wide priorities into a cohesive portfolio of transformation projects with actionable plans.
• Analyze data and customer insights to inform decisions, prioritize initiatives, and identify opportunities for operational improvement and innovation.
• Lead the coordination, monitoring, and governance of transformation programs and project portfolios to meet corporate objectives.
• Develop and refine prioritization frameworks, delivery timelines, and performance metrics to ensure successful project execution.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and dashboards for executive and board-level decision support.
• Manage change initiatives to ensure successful adoption and integration of new processes and systems.
• Develop communication strategies to keep employees and stakeholders informed and engaged throughout transformation efforts.
• Provide financial oversight of the program portfolio, including budgeting, forecasting, and spend analysis tied to project milestones.
• Conduct data analytics to measure performance, manage risks, and optimize portfolio outcomes.
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships internally and externally to support organizational improvement and transformation goals.
• Ensure all programs comply with relevant legislative, regulatory, and governance standards.

Required Expertise & Qualifications

• At least 10 years of senior leadership experience in a large, complex, and commercially-oriented organization.
• Extensive background in transformation management, strategic execution, enterprise PMO leadership, or organizational performance enhancement.
• Proven capability to convert corporate strategy into measurable programs with strong governance and execution discipline.
• Experience collaborating with executive teams to facilitate data-driven, evidence-based strategic decisions.
• Solid knowledge of corporate governance, risk management, and compliance in highly regulated or public service contexts.
• Demonstrated leadership of multidisciplinary teams and fostering high-performance through mentorship and governance.
• Superior analytical and problem-solving skills, able to simplify complex challenges and provide balanced recommendations.
• Exceptional stakeholder communication, influencing skills, and ability to build trust and secure commitment to change initiatives.
• Robust commercial and financial proficiency including budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance analysis.
• Experience leveraging data and customer insights to drive organizational improvements and risk management.

Educational Background

• Degree in Business, Management, Economics, Public Policy, Engineering, or a related discipline is required.
• Postgraduate or professional qualifications in areas such as Lean Six Sigma, Agile, PRINCE2, accountancy, or change management are advantageous.

Why Join Bus Éireann?

Being part of Bus Éireann means contributing to a national organization key to Ireland’s regional development and sustainable mobility. This role provides the chance to influence public transport strategy and address major national issues like climate action, infrastructure, and economic growth. You will work with experienced leaders in a collaborative environment that values strategic thought, innovation, and evidence-based decisions amid significant transformational change.

Additional Information

Location: Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland (onsite).

Bus Éireann is an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusion.