Full Time, UK based
We are looking for an exceptional Programme Manager for our Circular Design Programme. Reporting directly to our Circular Design Lead and managing a small team, you will shape and deliver the strategy of the Programme which aims to inspire and equip millions of design practitioners globally. In the past decade, the shift to a circular economy has begun. Now, we can accelerate, distribute, and deepen the positive impacts of this transition by leveraging design.
Isolated, downstream solutions may treat the symptoms of the take-make-waste economy. However, to achieve radical change, and challenge the fundamentals of this wasteful model, we need to look at the design stage, the people who influence design, and the skills and knowledge of designers. This means going upstream, and by intention creating products, services, and systems that are ready for a regenerative circular economy.
Representing the Foundation and engaging with key stakeholders both internally and externally, you will develop relationships with influential partners, oversee creative and impactful projects, and drive activities across three strategic areas:
Promoting circular design as a compelling concept and discipline, through publication of thought leadership and networking with design institutions
Creating a thriving global movement of design and innovation practitioners, through community development, creative communications, and event participation
Catalysing circular design demonstration, using tools such as the Circular Design Guide, resources for innovators in plastics, fashion, and food, and engaging design teams.
Specific role responsibilities include:
Manage the team to deliver results against the objectives of the Circular Design Programme, including project planning and management.
Actively develop overall Programme strategy and the continuous development of the Foundation’s expertise in Circular Design systems.
Lead the development of industry leading perspectives and research for the initiative. Represent the Foundation at meetings, events and workshops (including international).
Manage and develop relationships with a wide range of stakeholders ranging from companies, policymakers, NGOs, designers, schools and federations to drive progress towards a circular economy.
Provide strategic input to the Programme Lead to support the development of the broader programme strategy.
Your profile
A minimum of 5 years’ relevant work experience at a senior level, for example within a design agency; Management or strategy consulting experience would be advantageous.
An academic degree in a relevant field such as business, economics, science or engineering.
An affinity for design.
Experience of managing a team including coaching and support of personal and professional development.
Evidence of recent experience working with and engaging a diverse set of stakeholders. The ability to interact effectively with individuals at various management levels across a variety of organisations
Demonstrated ability leading development of insights and technical content which input into overall strategy.
Experience of managing complex projects to deliver successful outcomes and meet time-critical milestones, including project planning and effective prioritisation to deliver on an outcome basis.
Strong analytical skills to solve complex problems and extract key insights from data. Excellent communication skills both written and verbal, with the ability to summarise and present extremely complex information.
Desired starting date: ASAP
Closing date: January 30th 2023
Salary range: £48,000 - £54,000 per annum depending on experience.
Benefits package: generous holiday allowance (25 days plus UK bank holidays and discretionary extra days leave) generous parental leave; enhanced pension options/private health scheme after 6 months; wellbeing programme.
Location: UK based with regular attendance at our office in Cowes, Isle of Wight (subject to individual circumstances). Some international travel may be required.
Relocation support: We offer support with relocation from overseas, such as: helping to source accommodation, travel expenses to the UK (dependent on circumstances and eligibility). Many colleagues will have faced the same challenges as you (including relocating pets!) and we will be happy to assist you in this transition.
What we do
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation develops and promotes the idea of a circular economy. We work with, and inspire, business, academia, policymakers, and institutions to mobilise systems solutions at scale, globally. Our mission is to accelerate the transition to a circular economy.
Our vision is a new economic system that delivers better outcomes for people and the environment. Business models, products, and materials are designed to increase use and reuse, replicating the balance of the natural world, where nothing becomes waste and everything has value. A circular economy, increasingly built on renewable energy and materials, is distributed, diverse, and inclusive.
Our commitment to you
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is committed to promoting equal opportunities in employment and providing a working environment free from discrimination. Job applicants will receive equal treatment regardless of age, disability, gender, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.