JOB DESCRIPTION REFERENCE NUMBER JOB TITLE AREA LOCATION OFT679 Project Portfolio Manager Corporate Services Fleetbank

House Head of the IT TBC TBC GRADE GROUP DATE G7 Information Technology Group (ITG) and Records Management October 2008

RESPONSIBLE TO

RESPONSIBLE FOR PEOPLE RESPONSIBLE FOR BUDGET WORK OF SECTION

The IT Group is responsible for implementing, maintaining and supporting effective and efficient information technology solutions for the OFT. ITG uses a blended in-house / outsourced approach and as such works closely with a number of 3rd party service and solution providers. A comprehensive and forward looking ICT strategy has recently been developed. The Strategy identified a range of investment opportunities and also proposed that OFT strengthen its Governance of IT projects so that we could improve the delivery of benefits from our ICT investments. JOB PURPOSE This role involves providing overall control and coordination for ICT change within the OFT. It combines both strategic and advisory elements as well as more hands on management and analysis activities. The Project Portfolio Manager is accountable to the Head of IT and also (where relevant) to managers / heads of a department / project boards in respect of each project. The role may also report to a board or steering committee in respect of a particular project(s). MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES/KEY DUTIES Key activities will include: Overseeing and coordinating ICT related change at the OFT and that Governance processes are followed. Ensuring projects fit within the OFT IT Strategy. Portfolio level planning and reporting. Managing portfolio level risk for ICT change. Managing the programme office function. Supporting the process of project prioritisation, approval and initiation, including supplier selection (where applicable).

Supporting individual projects by providing advice and guidance regarding project governance, management and benefits realisation. Providing a quality assurance role ensuring that project are well managed and adhering to appropriate standards and good practice. Being critical friend to those leading and managing ICT related change within the OFT. Project managing some individual projects within the overall ICT programme. Providing business analysis input and managing the provision of business analysis services (this is likely to involve managing both contract and permanent business analysis resources as well as directly undertaking some business analysis).

The post also involves being part of the overall ITG management team and contributing to the collective leadership of the work of the team. The post holder may also be asked to undertake other duties outside of this description that are commensurate with their grade and experience.

PERSON SPECIFICATION Qualifications No specific qualifications are required for this role, however it is likely that the post holder will be educated to degree level and have some form of formal project / programme management qualification. Experience Sound experience managing of IT, business analysis or business change Managing multiple concurrent initiatives. A strong track record of successful delivery and benefits realisation.

Skills and Competencies Proven influencer and communicator with stakeholders at all levels. Project and programme management: Able to manage complex, business led IT change projects including concurrent projects. Will be qualified in or have proven experience using recognised project management methods (e.g. Prince 2). Risk management: Experienced in the identification, assessment and management of project risks able to manage the risk not just the list. Business analysis: Proven competency in business analysis, requirements definition and business case production. Client management: tactful, resolute and committed to providing excellent customer service. Delivering results: ability to plan and organise self and work in order to achieve objectives and targets. Is determined to deliver outcomes and is able to overcome obstacles in order to move forward. Accountable for the delivery of outcomes, strives to meet and exceed the expectations of customers.

Forward thinking: has a flexible approach to change, is able to work effectively in a variety of situations, seeks improvements and looks to the future. Communication: strong written and presentational skills; ability to clearly communicate complex messages to a variety of audiences including senior management and the Board. Influencing and negotiating: has the confidence and gravitas to influence and challenge at executive / board level. Information technology: possesses a thorough understanding of information technology and its application to business issues. Understands the use of information technology in a strategic context as a means to an end. Is conversant with current technologies and trends relevant to the OFT (particular examples include knowledge and document management, ERP, case management, content management and office automation). Has sufficient knowledge to use experts appropriately and act at an intelligent customer. Working with others: ability to work effectively with colleagues, managers, suppliers and stakeholders. Understands the importance of developing effective partnership relationships with key suppliers. Capable of training, supervising and managing staff in project management and business analysis. Government: Experience of relevant public sector standards and approaches is highly desirable. The Government Gateway and OGC / OJEU procurement processes is of particular relevance to this role.