Project Officer - Grade 8 (£38,934 - £40,755)

Project Officer – Connect to Work Programme

Salary: Grade 8
Contract Type: Fixed Term – 2 Years
Hours: 36 per week
Location: Croydon Council / South London Partnership (with travel across SLP boroughs)
Reporting to: Employment Programmes Manager
Team: Employment, Skills & Economic Development

About the Role

We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Project Officer to support the delivery of the Connect to Work Programme—a voluntary, locally-led Supported Employment initiative launched under the UK Government’s Get Britain Working strategy. The programme helps people with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or complex barriers to employment to enter and sustain meaningful work.

Croydon Council is the Accountable Body , managing its delivery across the five boroughs within the South London Partnership.

As Project Officer, you will work closely with the Senior Project Officer, Programme Manager, and external contractors to ensure smooth programme operations, robust data management, and effective stakeholder engagement. You’ll play a key role in supporting contract compliance, monitoring performance, and improving service integration.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide project support across the SLP boroughs, including data analysis and reporting.
• Assist in coordinating programme activities and administrative arrangements.
• Support contract management and ensure compliance with funding requirements.
• Monitor participant records and ensure accurate processing (experience with DWP PRaP system preferred).
• Contribute to the development of strategic engagement plans and partnership working.
• Produce regular performance reports and briefings for internal and external stakeholders.
• Represent the programme at meetings and community events across the region.

What We’re Looking For

Essential Experience & Skills:

• Experience supporting delivery of employment or skills programmes, ideally within a local authority or public sector setting.
• Knowledge of DWP and externally funded interventions (e.g. ESF).
• Strong analytical and reporting skills, with proficiency in Excel.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Familiarity with project assurance, risk management, and compliance processes.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a target-driven environment.

Why Join Us?

This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a high-impact programme that supports some of South London’s most disadvantaged residents. You’ll be part of a committed and collaborative team working to improve employment outcomes and make a real difference in people’s lives.