Strategic Project Manager

Lfdesignschool; City of London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A creative education institution based in East London is looking for a Strategic Project Manager to oversee operations and lead initiatives across two dynamic brands. The ideal candidate should have a solid project management background, preferably in education or creative industries. This role offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and the opportunity to work closely with the Founder on impactful projects. Flexible working options are available.

Benefits

Performance bonus

30 days annual leave + bank holidays

1-year contract with potential for renewal

Qualifications

• Proven experience in project management or operations in the creative or education fields.
• Excellent organizational and people management skills.
• Comfortable leading initiatives independently.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operations across both businesses.
• Manage timelines of employees.
• Identify potential partners and create a target list.

Skills

Project management

People management

Organizational skills

Creative workflow understanding

Tools

Adobe

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Job description

Overview

Based in East London’s creative heart, we offer flexible, career-focused digital design training delivered by industry professionals. Our students graduate with up to 20 software certifications, strong portfolios, mentoring, and hands-on placements within the creative community.

London Software Training

Established in 2012, we provide practical, hands-on training in industry-standard design software, both in-person and online. We support learners with live sessions, portfolio guidance, free refreshers, and tailored support to help them succeed in creative careers.

Your Role as a Strategic Project Manager

We’re seeking a capable and driven Project Manager to work closely with the Founder across two dynamic and fast-growing education brands: London Fields Design School and London Software Training.

This role blends project management and strategic execution. You’ll be responsible for leading initiatives across departments while acting as a trusted right hand to the Founder—helping turn vision into actionable plans, managing key relationships and keeping operations aligned with company goals.

It’s a perfect opportunity for someone who thrives in a creative, high-growth environment and wants to make a tangible impact every day.

Your Role as a Strategic Project Manager

• Act as the Founder’s key partner in executing business vision across both brands
• Lead projects in all areas of the business (operations, marketing, sales, creative, academic, partnerships)
• Own and drive high-level projects with minimal supervision
• Pre-empt roadblocks and solve problems proactively across departments
• Communicate confidently and professionally on behalf of the Founder when required
• Bring structure, accountability and clarity to fast-moving initiatives
• Help develop and implement new ideas, services, systems and partnerships

Key Responsibilities

Project and Operations Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations across both businesses
• Manage timelines of employees and delivery across multiple teams and initiatives
• Ensure each employee is thriving and working to their best potential
• Scope includes: Marketing, Sales, Branding & Communications, Customer Service & Experience, Academic & Course Development, Partnerships & External Relations, People & Culture

Project Initiation

• Analyse existing projects to identify areas for improvement and opportunities for upgrades
• Consult with the Founder and develop and implement new projects designed to enhance functional performance and income
• Engage with and utilise staff members to achieve agreed project outcomes

Hands-on Work in Partnerships

• Identify potential partners and create a target list
• Initiate contact with identified partners to arrange meetings
• Finalise mutually beneficial partnerships that contribute to business growth
• Operate autonomously, offering contributions beyond the scope of the sales team
• Take full ownership of your projects and operate autonomously without needing direct guidance from the Founder
• Ensure smooth execution of all operations, stepping in to cover tasks during the Founder’s absence

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in project management or operations — ideally in sales, marketing, education, or creative industries
• Excellent organisational and people management skills
• A calm, solutions-focused mindset with the ability to juggle multiple priorities
• Comfortable leading initiatives independently while working closely with the Founder
• Based in/near London, with the ability to be in our Hackney studio 4-5 days per week
• Creative Industries – Understanding of design, media, creative workflows, or tools like Adobe, AutoCAD or SketchUp
• Education and Training – Experience running programs, managing tutors, or supporting student engagement
• Sales and Business Development – Background in business growth, partnerships, or B2B engagement
• Marketing and Communications – Strong grasp of content strategy, brand storytelling and digital marketing

Package

• Location: East London (Hackney) – 4 Days in Office / 1 Day Remote Option
• A central leadership role in two exciting and growing education businesses
• Salary: Competitive, based on experience
• Performance bonus
• Annual performance-related pay review
• 30 days annual leave + bank holidays
• 1-year contract with potential for renewal or expansion
• The chance to work alongside the Founder on meaningful, high-impact projects
• An opportunity to help shape the future of design education