Programme Controls Assistant

The University of East London (UEL), a forward-thinking institution established in 1898, is actively seeking a driven and organised individual to join its dynamic Projects & Estates Development (PED) team as a Programme Controls Assistant. This is a pivotal role that will directly support the Director of Projects & Estates Development and play a crucial part in UEL's ambitious Vision 2028 transformation, a significant campus-wide capital investment programme.

For candidates passionate about contributing to the future of education and seeking to advance their careers in a supportive and growth-oriented environment, this opportunity presents several compelling advantages.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Role in Transformative Projects: As a Programme Controls Assistant, you will be at the heart of a major campus transformation. Your work will directly enable the successful delivery of significant capital investment projects, shaping the future of UEL's campuses and student experience. This offers a tangible sense of contribution and achievement.
• Career Development in Programme Controls: This position provides an excellent platform for individuals looking to build a strong foundation and gain significant experience in programme controls. You'll develop skills in data management, reporting, document control, and executive support, all within a high-stakes project environment.
• Executive Exposure and Learning: Directly supporting the Director of Projects & Estates Development offers invaluable exposure to senior leadership. This provides a unique opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, understand strategic decision-making, and develop essential professional etiquette and communication skills.
• Vibrant and Inclusive Culture: UEL is committed to changing lives through education and fostering a diverse, inclusive, and green future. You will be joining a community that values innovation, curiosity, and positive change, where collaboration and mutual respect are paramount.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: UEL recognises the importance of a holistic employee experience. The benefits package includes a highly competitive salary, a generous pension contribution (20% total), substantial annual leave (25 days plus additional days over Christmas, plus bank holidays), hybrid working opportunities, and a commitment to flexible working arrangements.
• Employee Wellbeing and Perks: Beyond the core benefits, UEL prioritises employee wellbeing with a subsidised gym membership, life assurance, a cashback healthcare scheme, and a wide array of discounts on products, services, and lifestyle choices.
• Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI): UEL is a proud advocate for EDI, demonstrated by achievements such as a zero gender pay gap and recognition through Stonewall and Athena Swan awards. As an employee, you'll be part of an organisation that actively promotes and upholds these values.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Fast-Paced and Demanding Environment: The role is described as operating in a fast-paced environment. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic workload and possess the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities efficiently.
• Organisational Prowess and Attention to Detail: Success in this role hinges on exceptional organisational skills and a meticulous eye for detail. You will be responsible for managing crucial programme data, deadlines, and sensitive information, requiring a high level of accuracy and diligence.
• Data Management and Reporting Skills: A core component of this position involves data collection, analysis, and reporting. While experience with MS Project or Power BI is advantageous but not essential, a strong aptitude for working with data and preparing information for dashboards and reports is crucial.
• Executive Support Acumen: Providing high-quality executive support to the Director requires professionalism, discretion, and the ability to manage diaries, meetings, and confidential information with confidence.
• Adaptability and Proactivity: The ability to adapt to evolving project needs and to proactively identify and address challenges will be key to thriving in this role.
• Understanding of Capital Projects/HE (Advantageous): While not a prerequisite, prior experience in capital projects, construction, or the Higher Education sector would be a significant asset, providing a deeper understanding of the context and challenges of the role.

This Programme Controls Assistant position at the University of East London is an exceptional opportunity for an organised and proactive individual to make a significant impact within a transformative educational institution. If you are looking to grow your career in programme management, gain valuable executive support experience, and contribute to a truly inspiring mission, we encourage you to explore this exciting role.