Job Description

Cognita is a global leader in independent education, comprised of a family of diverse but connected schools spanning thirteen countries. With over 100 schools across Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia, it employs over 18,000 teaching and support staff, educating and caring for 85,000 students. In 2018 it was acquired by Jacobs Holding AG and was later joined by minority investors BDT Capital and Sofina. Cognita's owners are known for long-term, 'patient' approach, serving as genuine partners to their management teams and the community.



Cognita continues to drive rapid growth, enabling its educational mission through the advanced and highly progressive use of technology. To support this, we are expanding our Oracle NetSuite platform, integrating it with key solutions like HubSpot CRM and Zenda Payment Gateway for our new schools in the Middle East.



We are seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to lead these efforts, ensuring smooth platform onboarding and delivery. If you are passionate about leading technology-driven projects and have a strong background in NetSuite finance implementations, this role offers the opportunity to make a real impact.



Please note, this role could be based in London or Dubai.



Role Overview

As Senior Project Manager, you will lead a small, dynamic team of technology specialists, internal SMEs, and third-party implementation partners. You'll work closely with business stakeholders to implement NetSuite, HubSpot CRM, and Zenda Payment solutions across our network of schools, ensuring seamless integration and rollout.



This role is perfect for a hands-on, delivery-focused project manager who thrives in complex, fast-paced environments, with extensive experience managing multiple dependent technology projects.



Core Responsibilities

Define and manage project scope, deliverables, outcomes, and benefits.

Lead day-to-day project delivery, ensuring deadlines are consistently met.

Develop and manage detailed program plans, covering requirements, design, build, testing, training, pilot, and rollout phases.

Implement governance frameworks for NetSuite and its integrated systems.

Coordinate post-go-live activities to ensure smooth operations.

Lead and manage internal and third-party resources, including vendors and consultants.

Proactively manage risks, assumptions, issues, dependencies, and decisions (RAIDD).

Manage project budgets, track spending, and report on exceptions.

Own relationships with external vendors, ensuring deliverables align with objectives.

Chair governance meetings, including steering groups, stand-ups, and working groups.

Provide regular status updates and highlight reports to stakeholders.



Project-Specific Responsibilities

Ensure smooth data flow and integration across Oracle NetSuite, HubSpot CRM, and Zenda Payment Gateway.

Lead cross-project testing activities to validate seamless system operation.

Develop user training materials and documentation to ensure high adoption and operational efficiency.



Skills, Knowledge, & Experience

Extensive experience leading end-to-end NetSuite implementations, with a focus on finance modules (accounting, financial reporting, PtP, OtC).

Strong financial process knowledge (general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, procurement, revenue recognition).

Proven ability to manage complex, multi-phase technology projects within budget and timelines.

Hands-on experience creating and executing training plans, onboarding resources, and adoption strategies.

Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills, with experience working across finance, IT, and vendor teams.

Ability to communicate clearly with both senior leadership and operational teams, providing status updates and progress reviews.

Experience managing third-party vendors, including contract management and performance reviews.

Skilled in creating executive-level presentations and documentation for both technical and non-technical audiences.



Qualifications & Certifications

PMP or Prince2 certification (required).

NetSuite certification (desirable).



Why Join Cognita?

This is a unique opportunity to join a high-growth, purpose-driven organisation that is transforming education through technology. As Senior Project Manager, you will play a critical role in enabling the success of students and schools by implementing cutting-edge solutions that streamline operations and support effective learning.



If you are ready to take on a challenging, rewarding role and drive change in a progressive environment, we would love to hear from you.



Apply now to be part of a global team making a difference in education through technology.



•Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre- employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed•