Planning Manager

ZipRecruiter; England; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading UK water organisation as a Planning Manager, where you’ll lead project teams in delivering significant infrastructure projects. This leadership role requires proven planning experience in the civil and M&E sectors, focused on driving performance and excellence within the team.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in planning civil and M&E projects.
• Strong knowledge of NEC3/4 contracts.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing programme delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of compliant and realistic tender and construction programmes.
• Oversee progress tracking and delay analysis.
• Mentor junior Planners and support operational teams.

Skills

Planning

Leadership

Analytical Skills

Communication

Risk Management

Tools

Primavera P6

MS Office

Job description

Job Description

Planning Manager – Civil & Infrastructure Projects (Water Sector)

Brighton | £70,000 – £85,000 | Full-Time | Permanent

We’re partnering with a leading organisation in the UK water industry to recruit a skilled and driven Planning Manager to join their dynamic commercial team. This is a fantastic opportunity to take on a leadership role in a forward-thinking business delivering complex infrastructure projects with real social impact.

As Planning Manager, you’ll report to the Head of Planning and lead project teams in developing, monitoring, and delivering robust tender and contractual programmes. You’ll own project plans, analyse risk, challenge delays, and play a critical role in driving performance and delivery excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead development of compliant and realistic tender and construction programmes (including 4D planning)
• Oversee progress tracking, delay analysis, and regular reporting using Primavera P6
• Deliver collaborative planning workshops and support operational teams with key programme milestones
• Monitor risks, identify deviations, and update project plans accordingly
• Guide and mentor junior Planners, fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement
• Liaise with commercial and project teams to ensure aligned planning and delivery strategies
• Support with monthly reports, client engagement, and internal project reviews

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in planning civil and M&E projects, ideally in the water or infrastructure sector
• Strong knowledge of NEC3/4 contracts
• Advanced skills in Primavera P6 and MS Office
• Demonstrated leadership in managing programme delivery and performance across project lifecycles
• Confident communicator with excellent analytical and reporting skills
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and manage multiple priorities
• A proactive mindset and a passion for driving efficiency and best practice

Why Join?

You’ll be joining a reputable organisation that values innovation, teamwork, and leadership. This role offers a chance to make a real impact on critical infrastructure while advancing your planning career in a collaborative and inclusive environment.

Ready to step into a key leadership role?

Apply now and be part of a business that’s shaping the future of the UK’s water infrastructure.