The Role:

We are seeking a dynamic Project Manager to lead the operational delivery of an exciting new Schools Programme in Spain. This role combines strategic oversight with hands-on project management, ensuring successful implementation in line with British Council standards and the requirements of our funding partner.

You will drive the programme’s development and delivery, supported by the Education Team and leveraging existing networks and partnerships for rapid initiation. The programme will operate within the Schools sector framework and adhere to centrally provided guidelines.

Reporting to Spain’s Head of Education and collaborating closely with the Global Programme Team, you will ensure quality, compliance, and consistency across all schools-related products and services. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on education in Spain while developing your skills in project delivery and management.

Accountabilities:

The Project Manager is responsible for developing a comprehensive Project Management Plan that covers inception, delivery, and growth of the programme. They will ensure all activities are delivered in line with this plan, including monitoring partner commitments and implementing appropriate controls. A key part of the role involves identifying risks and working with the Senior Responsible Officer to develop mitigation strategies. The Project Manager will oversee internal and client procurement, contracting, compliance, and reporting, ensuring all processes meet corporate standards.

Data management is a critical responsibility, including timely data entry, quality assurance, and basic analysis of monitoring data to produce progress reports that satisfy funding requirements. The role also involves conducting programme-specific evaluations, identifying indicators and tools for data collection, and contributing to the establishment of Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning processes across the Spain programme. Collecting, collating, and coordinating project information will be essential to support decision-making and reporting.

Operational delivery will require the use of digital platforms and technology to enhance efficiency and impact. The Project Manager will integrate equality, diversity, and inclusion priorities into programme design and delivery, while conducting regular quality checks to ensure consistency and effectiveness. Findings will be reported with recommendations for remedial action where necessary.

Building and maintaining strong relationships with project partners, suppliers, contractors, and internal colleagues is central to the role. The Project Manager will manage stakeholder communications, strengthen relationships with funders and participating schools, and lead small teams of external stakeholders to deliver project outputs. They will also oversee procurement and contract management, ensuring suppliers deliver against agreed terms.

Financial accountability includes compliance with British Council financial policies, supporting the Head of Education with planning and reporting, and monitoring monthly finances to ensure accurate expenditure and adherence to P2P processes. The Project Manager will also follow corporate risk management procedures, including safeguarding, EDI, anti-racism, security, and anti-fraud measures, contributing to monthly and annual compliance checks.

Regular analysis and reporting of operational activity and performance data will support senior managers in making informed decisions. The Project Manager will contribute to effective monitoring and evaluation processes, capturing audience participation and feedback. Finally, the role requires active commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an inclusive and anti-racist culture, mitigating bias, and supporting well-being and mental health.

Requirements of the role:

• Experience of using technology effectively in the workplace
• Demonstrated knowledge and/or experience of project delivery, particularly client-funded and/or partnership projects
• Experience of maintaining project standards in delivery, in line with Centre of Excellence Project Management Standards.
• Experience of working across different cultures
• Good knowledge of the Spanish School systems
• Experience of promoting equality, diversity and inclusion within projects
• Understands and promotes ethical conduct, and able to ensure that own behaviour and the behaviour of others is consistent with these standards and values of the British Council.
• Association of Project Management (or equivalent) certification

Closing Date: Applications will close at 23:59 on Monday 12th January 2026 UK Time.

You must have the legal right to work in the mentioned region, appointed candidate will remain in present country. British Council is not able to support or sponsor work visa applications.

Important Information:

Department: Education

Contract type: Indefinite

Pay band: 6

Location: Spain, Madrid

Requirements:

Please note that candidates must have the pre-existing, legal right to work in the mentioned regions, appointed candidate will remain in present country.

Mobility / relocation / visa sponsoring support will not be provided.

British Council supports working in new ways such as hybrid working, subject to full approval by line management and conditional upon our ability to provide the appropriate level of service. This may not be appropriate for all roles but can be explored at interview.