Senior Manager - Portfolio Management

Job Title - Senior Manager - Portfolio Management

Career Level - E

Job Introduction

Are you an experienced leader in IT project portfolio management? We are seeking a talented Portfolio Management Office Senior Manager to oversee a diverse portfolio of IT projects in Finance, HR, Legal, and Compliance domains. You will lead a global team, manage outsourced IT resources, and drive continuous improvement of portfolio processes. With a total portfolio budget of up to $80M, you will establish core portfolio management controls and collaborate with 45 project managers and IT stakeholders. If you have a proven track record in portfolio management and exceptional communication skills, apply now to join our dynamic team.

Position Overview

The Portfolio Management Office Senior Manager will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of a diverse portfolio of IT projects in our Finance, HR, Legal, and Compliance domains. This role will involve the management of a core team of project managers and other project team members from an outsourced IT Services vendor with an estimated annual combined project budget of up to $10M. The role is also responsible for developing and running core portfolio management controls for the whole portfolio ($80-100M annually), including financial management and prioritization. The successful candidate will also be responsible for driving continuous improvement of portfolio processes. The scope of the role is global; with a wider team of around 45 project managers and portfolio leads, working closely with our IT business partners and senior stakeholders across AstraZeneca IT.

Responsibilities

• Manage a team of project managers and project resources from an outsourced IT Services vendor, providing leadership, guidance, and support to ensure successful project delivery. Management of portfolio demand with the vendor to make best use of the team as the portfolio changes over time. Onboard new team members and train them in core portfolio roles

• Establish and maintain core portfolio management controls, including financial management, prioritization, and resource allocation to ensure the successful execution of the portfolio of IT projects.

• Drive continuous improvement of portfolio processes, identifying and implementing best practices to enhance portfolio management efficiency and effectiveness.

• Work globally with a wider team of around 45 project managers, IT business partners, and senior stakeholders to align portfolio management activities with business objectives and priorities.

• Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, providing regular updates on portfolio performance, risks, and opportunities.

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders to ensure alignment and support for portfolio management initiatives.

• Build and manage a Portfolio Management Team – with a blend of permanent and outsourced support – to provide PMO and PSO support to projects and programmes.

• Managing the governance process and quarterly prioritisation for review and management of demands and projects at key checkpoints

• Management of data compliance across the portfolio

• Review of financial performance and reporting on projects and escalation/resolution of issues with the PM, Portfolio Lead and ITBP

• Day to day management of a delivery pod of OSP resources.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; Master's degree or MBA preferred.

• Proven experience in portfolio management, particularly in the management of IT projects within the pharmaceutical or highly regulated industry.

• Demonstrated leadership experience, including managing a team of project managers and working with outsourced IT Services vendors.

• Strong understanding of core portfolio management controls, including financial management, prioritization, and resource allocation.

• Proven track record of driving continuous improvement of portfolio processes and implementing best practices.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, global environment and effectively manage multiple priorities.

Skills and Capabilities

Essential

• Good communication and organisational skills

• Good business acumen with sensitivity to environment

• Familiar with project management and delivery methodologies and standards

• Fair understanding of technology terminology and SDLC framework

• A self-starter with high levels of drive, energy, resilience, and a desire for professional excellence

• Demonstrate flexibility, and the right attitudes and behaviours

• Good in Stakeholder management

• Global Expertise

• Experience leading small teams and activities.

• Certification – Plus – Added Advantage

• PMP

• Prince 2

• CSM - Certified Scrum Master

• CSPO - Certified scrum Product Owner

• PowerBI

Desirable

• Experience of working with internal and third-party suppliers.

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.