Planning Manager

We are seeking an experienced Planning Manager to join a major civil engineering project based in Stockport, delivering a £150m water treatment works scheme. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, managing, and maintaining detailed project programmes to ensure timely and efficient delivery. This role requires close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams including design, construction, commercial, and client stakeholders to monitor progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies. You will lead the planning function throughout the project lifecycle, from tender through to completion, ensuring alignment with project objectives and contractual requirements. Strong communication and leadership skills are essential to drive performance and support decision-making across the project team.

Key Responsibilities:
• Develop, maintain, and update detailed project schedules and programmes using recognised planning methodologies.
• Monitor project progress, identify critical path activities, and highlight potential delays or risks.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and commercial teams to align planning with resource allocation and budget control.
• Produce regular progress reports, dashboards, and forecasts for internal and external stakeholders.
• Lead risk and opportunity management related to project scheduling.
• Support tender and contract planning activities, including baseline programme development and updates.
• Coach and mentor junior planners and promote best practice planning standards.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality standards within planning activities.

Skills:
• Advanced project scheduling and planning expertise
• Strong knowledge of civil engineering project lifecycles
• Risk identification and mitigation strategies
• Resource allocation and optimisation
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Time management and prioritisation
• Collaborative team working
• Experience with water treatment or infrastructure projects

Software/Tools:
• Primavera P6
• Microsoft Project
• Microsoft Excel (advanced)
• Project management and reporting tools