Programme Director

Role Summary

The role is responsible for leading the end-to-end delivery of one of CRES’s (Corporate Real Estate & Services) critical, flagship programmes, from strategy through to execution, in line with the Bank’s standards and business requirements. This includes shaping and managing a clear real estate strategy in close partnership with local businesses and stakeholders, gaining alignment to market and business drivers, and providing clear escalation and communication channels between CRES and country leadership. The role ensures that programme and project delivery is fully aligned with the Business / Functional agenda and the Group CRES Strategy, while owning and delivering performance metrics, driving efficiencies, and streamlining delivery. It also safeguards the integrity of the overall strategy and design solution, balancing business and functional needs and acting as a key escalation point for senior stakeholders throughout the programme lifecycle. 

During planning phase, the role work closely with the Head of Asset Management Transformation, the role supports the formulation and implementation of preferred strategies by socialising and communicating them early and frequently with stakeholders to build awareness and support. It contributes to business case development and approvals, ensuring sufficient programme scope and budget for successful delivery.  

During the delivery phase, the role works closely with the Head of Capital Projects providing direct oversight of project teams, defining and refining stakeholder requirements, and ensuring regular, structured communication across SMEs, internal and external workstream leads and stakeholders. It is accountable for coordinating the programme of work toward a common objective, while proactively identifying risks and reporting on time, cost, change and other key aspects at a programme level. 

Role Responsibilities

Pre & Post Project Execution Document 

Collaborate with the Asset Management team in defining the Real Estate Strategy to best deliver Business needs, though to approval of Strategy Paper(s) 
Accountable for the development, submission, endorsement and approval of the Strategy Paper(s) through relevant governance forums and investment committees. Collaborate with the Workplace Capital Project team to deliver the defined Strategy to best deliver agreed Business needs 
Accountable for the development, submission, endorsement and approval of the Project Execution Document(s) through relevant governance forums and investment committees. 

Development Management

Build and lead a pre-deal due diligence team of subject matter experts, acting as primary contact for the steering committee, stakeholders and advisors. 
Define project scope and objectives, plan and manage resources, and ensure compliant delivery of the CRES Project Delivery Process. 
Oversee detailed schedules and work plans via the Project Manager, including feasibility analysis, design and bid processes, and recommendations to governance forums. 
Provide regular progress updates, monitor and adjust plans as needed, and deliver additional client-required services. 

Accountable Executive

Act as the formally appointed Accountable Executive (AE) with non‑delegable accountability for successful programme delivery in line with Bank standards and governance. 
Ensure programme compliance with Bank processes, effective stakeholder engagement, and leadership of Project Steering Committees with final decision authority. 
Support transformational projects, manage programme and project resourcing, and ensure accurate, timely programme data, MI and reporting. 
Lead change control (including re‑baselining scope, schedule, cost and benefits), escalations and issue resolution, and complete Post Implementation Reviews prior to programme closure. 
Deliver agreed outcomes and benefits realisation, which form a core part of the Programme Director’s annual performance objectives. 

Relationship

Develop and manage key stakeholder relationships connecting the business / functions involved and CRES 
Establish and report strategy performance against KPIs, dashboards and approved plans 
Manage strategy exemptions including evolution/update of established standards  
Contribute, influence, and manage issues related to the programme through direct oversight of Workplace project leads and Integrator Programme Office and Project Manager.  
Guide and support Regional Head of CRES / Country Head of CRES 

Role Requirements

• University Degree Holder and relevant qualifications / accreditations is a plus
• Strong ability to influence senior stakeholders, build consensus and operate effectively in a matrix environment.
• Proven client management experience with excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills in an international, cross‑cultural context.
• Experience with premises / real estate delivery systems, development and transactions, including managing architects, advisors and bid processes on large, complex projects.
• Demonstrated change management and integration programme experience, with strong analytical and project management skills.
• Commercial acumen and understanding of banking business, with the ability to translate Group strategies into actionable operational plans.
• Outcome‑focused leader who can inspire a clear vision, drive cross‑functional teams, and balance detail with big‑picture thinking.
• Strong leadership, initiative and people skills, able to attract, motivate and support talent while working both independently and collaboratively.
• High systems and process awareness, proactive problem‑solving approach, and ability to quickly establish credibility with senior management.