Project Lead - Flood and Coastal Risk Management - CMB2597e

Salary: £47,181 to £48,226 Hours: 37 hours per week Location: Carlisle Contract: Permanent About this opportunity We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Project Lead to join Cumberland Council’s Flood & Coastal Risk Management (FCRM) team. This key role leads the development and delivery of multi‑million‑pound flood and coastal risk management projects that help protect communities, businesses, infrastructure and the environment across Cumberland. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in delivering the Council’s flood and coastal works programme, whilst also supporting the team’s statutory responsibilities as the Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA) and Coast Protection Authority (CPA). As Project Lead, you will be responsible for managing projects throughout their entire lifecycle—from initial feasibility and business case development through to procurement, design, construction and commissioning. You will lead multidisciplinary project teams, manage consultants and contractors, and ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, on time, within budget and to the highest professional standards. The role also requires you to lead engagement with a wide range of stakeholders including residents, elected members, government agencies, partner organisations, local businesses, funding bodies and regulatory authorities. You will ensure effective communication and consultation throughout project development and delivery and secure positive outcomes for communities and stakeholders alike. You will ensure compliance with statutory requirements, internal governance and grant funding conditions, and provide leadership in project and programme management, risk management and continuous improvement. The post also includes supporting LLFA and CPA functions such as flood investigations, site visits and Section 19 reporting where required. The Project Lead will actively contribute to the development of the wider FCRM team through mentoring and supporting colleagues, sharing project management expertise and promoting a culture of high‑quality project delivery. Who we’re looking for Significant experience of delivering complex public‑sector capital‑funded projects. Strong knowledge of the mechanisms that drive flooding and coastal erosion processes, as well as the mitigation measures and funding routes available. Specific experience of delivering Natural Flood Management (NFM) projects would be beneficial. Strong project planning, programming and risk and commercial management skills. Familiarity with, or a qualification in, a recognised project management framework or methodology such as APM or PRINCE2 would be desirable. Knowledge of public‑sector financial and procurement processes and relevant procurement legislation. Significant experience procuring and managing consultants, contractors and professional service providers, and working collaboratively with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. Knowledge of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, NEC contracts, and ability to use AutoCAD and GIS software would be beneficial. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to prepare and present technical and non‑technical information clearly and effectively to a range of audiences. Comfortable chairing and presenting at meetings—including within a public setting. Due to the requirement to attend project sites and external meetings, a valid driving licence is essential for this role. Diversity, Inclusion & Adjustments We’re dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. That’s why we’re a proud Disability Confident Leader and also an Age Friendly Employer—providing opportunities for everyone to thrive. If you need any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let either the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team know by emailing View email address on click.appcast.io. While adjustments aren’t always guaranteed, we’ll always listen and try our best to accommodate your needs. Contact For more information about the role or to arrange an informal chat prior to your application, please contact Andrew Harrison by email at View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr The Cumbria County Council