Head of Program Management

An Amazing Career Opportunity for a Head of Program Management!!

Location: Cardiff, UK

Job ID: 47106

The Manager of Program Management is responsible for evolving and leading this team. The role focuses on developing strong Program Managers who can independently drive execution, manage stakeholders, and deliver predictable outcomes across complex, cross-functional environments.

To support this, the Agile Program Management Office (APMO) drives execution across strategic initiatives and product development through a team of Program Managers operating across multiple Agile Release Trains (ARTs) and functions.

This is a people leadership role with a focus on performance, coaching, and capability building. Ensuring Program Management scales effectively across PACS.

If you have a drive to develop people, raise the bar on performance, and build a strong execution engine through others, this role offers a significant opportunity to shape how PACS delivers value.

Who are we? 

HID powers the trusted identities of the world’s people, places, and things, allowing people to transact safely, work productively and travel freely.

We are a high-tech software company headquartered in Austin, TX, with over 4,500 worldwide employees. Check us out here: www.hidglobal.com and https://youtu.be/23km5H4K9Eo 

Physical Access Control Solutions (PACS):

HID Physical Access Control Solutions (PACS) is at the forefront of securing spaces with advanced, reliable access control solutions. From cutting-edge readers, credentials and controllers, to mobile and biometric technologies, HID PACS empowers organizations worldwide to protect their people, property and assets with scalable, high-quality solutions. 

This is more than just a job – it’s your chance to join an industry leader to drive innovation in access control and make a real impact on global security solutions.

Duties and Responsibilities include the following

• Lead, manage, and develop a team of Program Managers across PACS domains.
• Set clear expectations for performance, ownership, and ways of working.
• Host team calls and individual one on one calls.
• Drive goal setting, performance management, and career development.
• Coach Program Managers in stakeholder management, communication, and execution discipline.
• Build capability in structuring epics, managing risks, and driving alignment across Product and Engineering.
• Ensure Program Managers operate with clear ownership and accountability for outcomes.
• Define and reinforce consistent Program Management practices across the organization.
• Establish and maintain a Program Management playbook covering epics, risks, milestones, and reporting.
• Lead hiring and onboarding of Program Managers, maintaining a high talent bar.
• Use active programs and real delivery work as the primary vehicle for coaching and development.
• Drive adoption of standard ways of working, including Jira and Confluence as the source of truth.
• Support change initiatives by embedding new practices through the Program Management team.
• Establish a strong internal APMO operating rhythm to align Program Managers and share best practices.
• Provide escalation support in complex situations while maintaining ownership with Program Managers.

Education and/or Experience          

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• 8+ years of experience in Program Management, Product Development, or related roles.
• Prior people management experience desired.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading and developing Program Managers or similar roles.
• Strong background in Program Management within complex product development environments.
• Experience working in scaled agile environments (e.g., SAFe or similar).
• Demonstrated ability to improve team performance through coaching and clear expectations.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Ability to create clarity and structure in ambiguous environments.

Work Requirements

• Compliance to all relevant HID Global policies and procedures related to Quality, Security, Safety, Business Continuity, and Environmental systems.
• Travel and fieldwork, including international travel may be required. Therefore, employee must possess, or be able to acquire a valid passport.
• Must be legally eligible to work in the country in which you are hired.  

What we can offer you:

• Competitive salary and rewards package.
• Competitive benefits and annual leave offering, allowing for work-life balance.
• A vibrant, welcoming & inclusive culture.
• Extensive career development opportunities and resources to maximize your potential.
• To be a part of a global organization that is pioneering the hardware, software and services that allow people to confidently navigate the physical and digital worlds.

Why apply? 

• Empowerment: You’ll work as part of a global team in a flexible work environment, learning and enhancing your expertise. We welcome an opportunity to meet you and learn about your unique talents, skills, and experiences. You don’t need to check all the boxes. If you have most of the skills and experience, we want you to apply.
• Innovation: You embrace challenges and want to drive change. We are open to ideas, including flexible work arrangements, job sharing or part-time job seekers.
• Integrity: You are results-orientated, reliable, and straightforward and value being treated accordingly. We want all our employees to be themselves, to feel appreciated and accepted.

HID does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. We are not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

HID is committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce that reflects the global communities we serve. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Our goal is to create a workplace that empowers everyone to thrive and be their authentic selves, fostering an environment of mutual respect and inclusivity. If you have a disability and require assistance or accommodation to participate in the application process or to perform essential job functions, please contact accommodations-ext@hidglobal.com.

Please be aware that our recruitment process may include the use of AI-powered tools to assist in screening applicant resumes. These tools help us efficiently identify candidates whose qualifications and skills align with the job description. We use AI in a responsible manner and in accordance with applicable data privacy laws and regulations. Importantly, all applicants are reviewed by our Talent Acquisition team. AI is used to support, not replace, human judgment in the evaluation process. 

HID is certified as a Great Place to Work in the UK, reflecting employee feedback on trust, collaboration, and workplace culture.