National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
Deputy Programme Manager

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About the Role
Build your programme management track record in support of boosting UK industry.
NPL works at a strategic level with government and academia to respond to the challenges and priorities of UK industry.
Ultimately, our programmes translate cutting-edge science and engineering into impactful practical applications. Contributing to these programmes is a major responsibility – and a huge career opportunity.
As a Deputy Programme Manager, you will support Programme Managers to ensure contracts are successfully delivered and benefits are realised.
- You will have the opportunity to input into the overall programme design and the development of new and improved processes including automation and digital dashboard reporting.
- You will also have the key responsibility of monitoring the progress of the overall programme while analysing individual projects and the outputs of project reporting.
- This will involve contributing to programme level reporting to customers in research institutions and government.
- We want you to be proactive in driving the success of your programme by working closely with other NPL teams to overcome obstacles.
In addition, you will provide clear guidance to NPL scientists on the scope of programmes and the processes involved, keeping it easy and efficient for scientists to engage.
About You
You will already have a track record of programme or project delivery in a complex stakeholder environment.
- You will be passionate about delivering benefits and demonstrating the impact of the programme.
- You’ll have a good awareness of programme and project management techniques and their application.
- You should have an understanding of government reporting and financial management processes and contract management requirements.
- Good communication skills are a must – you will be able to interpret complex information to meet the needs of different audiences.
- You will thrive in situations where there is ambiguity and agreement needs to be reached across partners and stakeholders.
- You will know how to resolve issues and obstacles and use the lessons learnt to drive change and enhance the performance of the programme.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
NPL Offers
NPL offers competitive rewards and benefits. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance. Please see our careers website for more information.
Our work sets us apart. Our differences bring us together. Be part of something amazing.
We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.
Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.
About Us
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. Find out more about what it is like working here - The measure of us - Overview


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NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. More about this on our Diversity & Inclusion page.
We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.
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