Planning Manager

Job Title - Planning Manager

Salary - Up to £85,000 + bonus / car allowance and an excellent package

Location - Reading - Hybrid Working - 2 days on site

The Client / Role

Cobalt is working with a Global Tier one contractor that have an opportunity for a Planning Manager to work on one the UK's largest live projects. As Planning Manager you will oversee the strategic planning and scheduling of AWE construction and MEP services, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Aims to optimize project timelines, resource allocation and coordination efforts. Fosters efficiency across the construction portfolio, implementing best practices and guiding the planning team to achieve successful project outcomes.

What You'll Be Doing

As a Planning Manager in our growing team, your responsibilities will include:

Tender Stage

• Identifying planning scope, constraints, and contract requirements while analyzing key factors affecting the programme.
• Leading the development of logical methodologies and efficient strategies for design, procurement, and construction.
• Driving collaboration with stakeholders to produce key deliverables such as tender programmes, planning philosophies, presentations, and reports.

Contract Stage

• Providing strategic guidance to planning teams during the contract phase to create, manage, and maintain comprehensive contract programmes.
• Overseeing critical path analyses, advising on corrective actions, and managing baseline programmes alongside change control processes.

Resource and Data Management

• Ensuring efficient allocation and management of labour, equipment, and materials to minimize delays and costs.
• Supporting the planning team in developing project data and KPIs for tracking progress and optimizing outcomes.

Leadership and Development

• Mentoring and guiding less experienced planners, fostering professional growth across the team.
• Promoting best practices and continuously enhancing team capabilities to meet evolving project demands.

Who We're Looking For

Skills

• Expertise in planning buildings with complex services, such as hospitals or laboratories.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and data management skills.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and conflict-resolution abilities.
• Proven leadership and mentorship experience.

Knowledge

• Proficiency in project management tools such as Excel, Primavera P6, or ASTA.
• Comprehensive understanding of construction project management principles, methodologies, and best practices.
• Deep expertise in MEPH systems, interfaces, and commissioning processes.
• Familiarity with risk management methodologies (TRA, QSRA) and financial aspects of project planning, including budgeting and Earned Value Management.

Experience

• Significant experience in planning and managing complex construction projects, including large-scale MEPH works.
• Proven success in leading planning teams and delivering results in demanding project environments.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, and stakeholders.

If you feel that this is role for you, please apply with your latest CV.