Associate Director

AM Global; Derby; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

AM Global in Derby is seeking an Associate Director - Planning to lead the planning and scheduling for a high-profile rail/infrastructure programme. You will set baselines, drive performance reporting, and maintain robust project controls across the lifecycle.

The role requires a track record of 10+ years in major rail or infrastructure planning, a relevant engineering or PM degree, and proficiency in Primavera P6 and MS Project, with strong leadership and communication skills to collaborate

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in project planning and scheduling
• Degree/HNC/HND in Engineering, Project Management, or related subject
• Strong understanding of UK mobility sector and project delivery requirements
• Proven ability to lead and develop teams in fast-paced environments
• Proficient in Primavera P6 and MS Project
• Excellent organisational and communication skills
• Experience with project controls, cost engineering and financial operations
• Familiarity with contracting environments and commercial models

Responsibilities

• Lead planning and scheduling on complex projects with robust project controls
• Develop and maintain baseline plans, WBS, and schedules aligned to delivery objectives
• Monitor progress, identify variances, and implement recovery plans
• Provide input into bids, estimates, and resource planning
• Report earned value, progress and performance for forecasting and decision-making
• Analyse data to identify trends, risks, and anomalies
• Audit contractor plans and ensure adherence to NR procedures
• Mentor and develop planners and share knowledge
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders to deliver value
• Drive continuous improvement in planning processes and adopt digital tools

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Strong communication

Commercial awareness

Project controls

Education

Engineering/PM degree or equivalent

Tools

Primavera P6

MS Project

Job description

Associate Director - Planning

Role description:

My clients Mobility Programme Management & Commercial Management unit is seeking a highly skilled Lead Project Planner to lead the planning and scheduling of one of our major programmes in Derby. This pivotal role combines strategic planning, team leadership, and performance reporting to ensure successful project delivery. You will play a key role delivering mobility (rail, highways and aviation) infrastructure and driving continuous improvement.

Role accountabilities:

• Lead planning and scheduling on complex projects, ensuring robust project controls throughout the lifecycle.
• Develop and maintain project baseline plans, work breakdown structures, and schedules aligned with delivery objectives.
• Monitor progress, identify variances, and implement recovery and contingency plans.
• Provide expert input into bids, estimates, and resource planning to support business growth.
• Report on earned value, progress, and performance to inform financial forecasting and decision-making.
• Analyse project and programme data to identify trends, risks, and anomalies.
• Ensure compliance with planning standards and lifecycle frameworks.
• Audit contractor plans and monitor adherence to Network Rail procedures.
• Mentor and support planners, fostering skills development and knowledge sharing.
• Collaborate with clients, multidisciplinary teams, and stakeholders to deliver value and build strong relationships.
• Drive continuous improvement in planning processes and adopt emerging digital tools.

Qualifications & Experience:

Essential

• 10+ year experience in project planning and scheduling, ideally within major rail or infrastructure programmes.
• Degree/HNC/HND in Engineering, Project Management, or a related subject.
• Strong understanding of UK mobility sector and project delivery requirements.
• Proven ability to lead and develop teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in planning software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project).
• Excellent organisational, commercial, and communication skills.
• Experience with project controls, cost engineering, and financial operations.
• Familiarity with different contracting environments and commercial models