Job Description

Specialist, Project Manager (23577)

Programme Management | Pearson Qualifications (PQ)

Description

Join Pearson and play a key role in delivering high-impact projects that power global qualifications and learning experiences.

As a Project Manager within our central Programme Management Office (PMO), you will lead the delivery of operational and transformation projects across process, technology, and people-ensuring high-quality, reliable outcomes that support learners, educators, and partners worldwide.

This role aligns with market-facing titles such as Project Manager, Programme Manager, Delivery Manager, or Operations Project Manager, making it easily recognizable across the industry.

The Role

At Pearson, we help people make measurable progress through learning. In this role, you will sit at the heart of operational delivery-connecting strategy, execution, and stakeholders to ensure successful project outcomes.

Working in a fast-paced, matrix environment, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams across operations, assessment, product, technology, and customer services to deliver projects that introduce new services, enhance existing processes, and drive continuous improvement.

In Your First 6 Months

You'll make impact by:

• Building a strong understanding of PQ operations, PMO frameworks, and key stakeholders
• Establishing trusted relationships across cross-functional teams
• Successfully delivering projects aligned to operational priorities and timelines
• Driving improvements in governance, reporting, and delivery standards

What You'll Do

• Lead end-to-end delivery of multiple operational and transformation projects
• Develop and manage project plans, timelines, dependencies, and governance structures
• Ensure robust risk, issue, and change management (RAID) processes
• Deliver clear, data-led reporting and maintain visibility for stakeholders
• Drive operational readiness, including transition to BAU and post-project reviews
• Collaborate with SMEs, business owners, and suppliers to deliver successful outcomes
• Apply continuous improvement and lean methodologies to optimise delivery
• Leverage tools and data (e.g., Smartsheet, Power BI) to support decision-making

What We're Looking For

• Experience in project management within operational delivery or transformation environments
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills across all levels
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, matrix environment
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset
• Experience in risk management, governance, and delivery frameworks
• Familiarity with project tools (e.g., Smartsheet, Excel, Power BI)

What Sets You Apart (Nice to Have)

• Experience in regulated or quality-critical environments
• Exposure to continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, process mapping)
• Experience with automation or AI tools in project delivery
• Knowledge of operational readiness, transition, and service delivery models

Your Rewards & Benefits

• Competitive salary (aligned to IC20 level)
• Flexible / hybrid working
• Learning and development opportunities
• Opportunity to work on impactful, global projects

Location & Work Setup

This is a full-time role within Pearson Qualifications, working in a hybrid or remote model depending on location, with collaboration across global teams.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to help people make measurable progress in their lives through learning. We combine world-class content, assessment, and digital services to support learners at every stage.

About Us

Pearson is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit and business need. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status or any other group protected by law. We actively seek qualified candidates who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities as defined under VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.

If you are an individual with a disability and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career site as a result of your disability, you may request reasonable accommodations by emailing TalentExperienceGlobalTeam@grp.pearson.com.