Freelance Project Manager Planning

This role takes place within a fast-developing public-sector organization located between major urban centers and more rural areas. The organization is experiencing significant growth, both in population and internal capacity, and is adapting its ways of working to meet increasing societal, financial, and governance demands.

The environment is characterized by complex political and administrative dynamics, ambitious development goals, and a strong focus on continuous improvement. Professionals who thrive here are adaptable, proactive, and motivated to grow alongside the organization.

The organization is preparing for two major financial transformation initiatives:

• A comprehensive renewal and digital transformation of the Planning & Control (P&C) framework
• The introduction of Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) to improve cost transparency, policy prioritization, and spending effectiveness

To successfully deliver these initiatives, an experienced project lead with a strong financial background and proven public-sector experience is required.

Assignment Objectives

The assignment focuses on delivering the following outcomes:

1. Redesign, improve, and digitize the Planning & Control process, including workflows, system integrations, and the translation of governing body objectives into internal performance goals
2. Design and implement a Zero-Based Budgeting approach, embedding it structurally within the financial planning and control cycle

Key Deliverables

• A modernized and digitally supported Planning & Control framework
• Clearly defined and widely supported processes, templates, and governance standards
• A fully developed and implemented Zero-Based Budgeting methodology
• Periodic progress and risk reports for senior stakeholders
• Effective knowledge transfer and handover to internal teams

Responsibilities

• Lead the project focused on modernizing Planning & Control
• Review, assess, and improve existing financial planning and reporting processes
• Coordinate the digital transformation, including the selection or configuration of supporting systems and tools
• Drive the implementation of Zero-Based Budgeting by:
• Developing a structured approach and project plan
• Supporting departments in applying the methodology
• Creating templates, guidelines, and supporting documentation
• Monitoring progress, quality, and outcomes
• Advise senior leadership, financial controllers, and budget owners on impact, decision-making, and implementation steps
• Manage stakeholders across governance, finance, and policy domains
• Report on timelines, risks, milestones, and results

Education & Experience

• Completed higher professional education (Bachelor level or higher) in finance, economics, or a related field
• In-depth knowledge of public-sector Planning & Control cycles
• At least five years of experience as a project manager or senior advisor within a public or governmental organization
• Demonstrated experience with:
• Improving and digitizing financial planning and control processes
• Project management methodologies (e.g. PRINCE2, Agile, or similar)
• Implementing Zero-Based Budgeting or comparable budgeting and cost-allocation methods
• Proven ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including executives, management, and policy teams
• Experience operating within politically sensitive and governance-driven environments

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to connect people, interests, and objectives
• Results-driven and delivery-focused
• Politically and organizationally sensitive communicator

Please note:
This job posting is just a preview of the full scope of the position. A comprehensive job description is shared by a member of our team