Be part of the world-renowned WorldPop Group based at the School of Geography and Environmental Science, at the University of Southampton, a global top 100 university (QS World Rankings 2023). WorldPop is an award winning, interdisciplinary, multi-sectoral team of researchers, data analysts and project specialists working on producing data on population distributions and characteristics at high spatial resolution.

We are looking for an experienced, self-motivated, and dynamic Project Manager to join WorldPop’s Portfolio Management Office (PMO) to deliver one of our flagship projects on constructing high spatial resolution population projections and supporting the provision, access and updates of WorldPop spatial demographic datasets (FuturePop).

The post holder is also expected to provide project management support to other projects within WorldPop’s portfolio, which includes a broad range of externally funded projects and programmes that focus primarily on supporting the improvements of the spatial demographic evidence base and the use of these data for health and development applications.

You will already have project management experience, including delivery of multiple concurrent, complex projects in academia, the commercial or non-profit sector. WorldPop has a mixed portfolio of activities, and you should have a good understanding of portfolio management principles and experience working in a portfolio setting. As a Project Manager, you will engage with a range of stakeholders across the University, donor, and partner organisations in the UK and overseas. This role would suit someone who enjoys collaborating across teams and organisations. You will have a highly professional approach, and demonstrable strengths in project planning, prioritisation and delivery that support our strategic direction. You will demonstrate excellent direct and indirect communication skills appropriate for a wide cross-section of stakeholders. Experience working in the UK Higher Education sector and academia is welcomed.

You will have a skill level (including experience and other qualifications) equivalent to achievement of a professional qualification or degree.  You will be able to build, manage and motivate project teams in a matrix management environment. You will be professional, clear thinking under pressure and act as a role model within the PMO. A PRINCE2 Practitioner or equivalent agile or traditional project management qualification, experience of logistical frameworks and international development experience are desirable.

The position is funded until 31 December 2031.

The University of Southampton offers excellent benefits, including a generous holiday allowance of 30 days, 6 additional university closure days plus public holidays. We will support your long-term future too, with access to a generous pension scheme with Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), subsidised health and fitness facilities and a range of discounts.

The School of Geography and Environmental Science is committed to fostering a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion https://www.southampton.ac.uk/geography/about/equality-diversity-and-inclusion.page]. We welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates and particularly encourage applications from candidates belonging to groups who are under-represented within academic posts at the University, including, but not limited to: people from Black and minority ethnic groups; women and disabled people.