Planning Manager

Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled Planning Manager to lead the planning and project controls function for a large-scale, complex construction project. This pivotal role requires ownership of the planning strategy, methods, and logistics throughout the project lifecycle to ensure alignment with business objectives and support key decision-making. The successful candidate will develop detailed, robust programmes with clear logic and breakdown structures, including phasing diagrams, logistics plans, and resource/plant schedules. They will establish certainty on project progress, enhance predictability through effective project controls, and use data-driven insights to mitigate risks.

The Planning Manager will communicate planning and performance clearly to stakeholders, project teams, customers, and supply chain partners, while considering commercial and contractual implications, particularly under NEC contracts. They will foster collaboration across internal and external teams and contribute to innovation and pre-contract planning initiatives. Leadership and mentoring of planning team members are also key aspects of the role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning function across a primary project area.
• Define and implement planning strategies and logistics to deliver project outcomes.
• Create and maintain detailed, logic-driven programmes with engaging presentation.
• Develop phasing diagrams, logistics plans, and resource/plant histograms and schedules.
• Monitor progress and provide early warnings through robust project controls.
• Use data to support decision-making and reduce project risk exposure.
• Communicate planning status and performance to all relevant stakeholders.
• Consider commercial and contractual impacts of planning activities.
• Foster collaboration within project teams and supply chain partners.
• Drive innovation and contribute to pre-contract planning efforts.

Skills:

• Proven experience managing planning on complex construction projects.
• Strong understanding of NEC form of contract.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Solid understanding of construction methods and planning fundamentals.
• Proficient in Powerproject planning software.
• Experience leading and mentoring planning team members.
• Knowledge of 4D planning and digital planning technologies.
• Experience with Construction Management (CM) projects.
• Passion for innovation and driving planning initiatives.
• Proven experience contributing to pre-contract planning.

Software/Tools:

• Asta Powerproject, Primavera P6, Microsoft Project (desirable)
• 4D planning and digital planning tools (desirable)

Certifications & Standards:

• Relevant planning or project management qualifications (desirable)
• Familiarity with NEC contract requirements and project controls standards