Programme Manager

STEM Returners
Are you passionate about making a real difference in equity, diversity and inclusion and the future of STEM?
Join STEM Returners, a multi-award-winning organisation that is reshaping recruitment in STEM industries and unlocking opportunities for highly skilled professionals to restart their careers.
Since launch, STEM Returners has partnered with some of the world’s leading engineering and technology companies, helping over 600 professionals return to STEM careers—with an incredible 96% securing permanent roles.
Our programme is not just about filling jobs. It’s about changing lives, transforming workplaces, and driving genuine inclusion:
- 34% of our returners are from ethnically diverse backgrounds (compared to just 9% across UK engineering).
- 46% of our returners are women (versus just 16.9% across UK engineering roles).
We are breaking barriers, returning vital skills to industry, and leading the change in workplace equity. And now, we’re growing our team.
About the Role
As a Programme Manager, you’ll be at the heart of this mission—managing relationships with our host organisations, supporting talented returners, and ensuring programmes deliver impact. You’ll be the bridge between companies eager for diverse talent and skilled professionals ready to restart their careers.
This role is perfect for someone who is energised by people, passionate about inclusion, and thrives in a dynamic, purpose-driven environment.
What You’ll Do
- Build and manage strong relationships with our host organisations, guiding them through successful STEM Returners programmes.
- Champion inclusive recruitment by working closely with hiring managers to ensure job opportunities are accessible and fair.
- Match talented returners to suitable programmes, supporting them from application through to completion.
- Collaborate with our communications team to launch and promote programmes.
- Track programme data and produce insights for case studies and success stories.
- Partner with our Resourcing Specialists to connect the right people with the right opportunities.
- Mentor and guide our team members, supporting their growth.
- Promote our mission by sharing success stories and opportunities on social media.
- Research new projects and partnership opportunities to expand our impact.
Why Join Us?
- Purpose-driven work: Every day, you’ll help talented people overcome barriers and return to careers they love.
- Impact at scale: Your work will directly contribute to tackling inequalities in STEM.
- Collaborative culture: Join a passionate, supportive, and forward-thinking team that is driving meaningful change.
- Growth opportunity: As STEM Returners continues to expand, so do the opportunities for you to grow and shape your career with us.
What We’re Looking For
- A natural communicator—confident, engaging, and empathetic.
- Organised and proactive, with the ability to manage multiple programmes and stakeholders.
- Passionate about diversity, inclusion, and helping people succeed.
- A positive, energetic personality that thrives in a team with a big mission.
This role exists because of our continued growth and success—and with exciting projects on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to join us.
If you want to be part of a team that is returning skills and changing the culture of STEM for the better, we’d love to hear from you.
Salary
£32,500-£35,000pa (OTE £42,500-£45,000) depending on experience.
Closing date is 13th October 2025.