Principal Project Manager

ZipRecruiter; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking local authority in Greater Manchester is seeking a Principal Project Manager for a 6-month contract, potentially leading to a permanent position. You'll manage complex capital projects, lead a growing team, and act as a key client representative. The role requires a strong understanding of JCT/NEC contracts and a strategic mindset. Flexible work arrangements and a focus on professional development are offered.

Benefits

Supportive environment

Clear professional development pathways

Flexibility with work-life balance

Qualifications

• Proven experience in delivering complex capital projects from inception to completion.
• Strong working knowledge of JCT/NEC contracts, CDM 2015, and the Building Safety Act 2022.
• Excellent leadership and financial management skills.

Responsibilities

• Deputise for the Head of Service in programme governance.
• Lead and develop a growing team of Project Managers.
• Manage flagship capital projects ensuring compliance and stakeholder satisfaction.

Skills

Project Management

Stakeholder Engagement

Leadership

Financial Management

Education

Chartered membership with CIOB, RICS, ICE or APM

Job description

Job Description

6-month contract for a Principal Project Manager in Greater Manchester

Your new company
A forward-thinking local authority in Greater Manchester is seeking a Principal Project Manager to play a pivotal role in delivering a diverse and ambitious capital programme exceeding £50 million. This is a rare opportunity to join a dynamic and growing Capital Projects team at a strategic level, where you’ll act as deputy to the Head of Capital Projects and lead the delivery of some of the region’s most complex and high-value schemes.

Your new role
You will be responsible for three key areas:

• Strategic Leadership: Deputising for the Head of Service, contributing to programme governance, investment planning, and aligning delivery with long-term corporate strategies.
• Team Management: Leading and developing a growing team of Project Managers, Assistant PMs and Apprentices, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Project Delivery: Personally managing flagship capital projects (£15m–£50m+), acting as Client Representative and Contract Administrator under JCT and NEC contracts, ensuring compliance, value for money, and stakeholder satisfaction.

What you'll need to succeed

• Proven experience in delivering complex capital projects from inception to completion.
• Strong working knowledge of JCT/NEC contracts, CDM 2015, and the Building Safety Act 2022.
• Chartered membership (or working towards) with CIOB, RICS, ICE or APM.
• Excellent leadership, stakeholder engagement, and financial management skills.
• A strategic mindset with the ability to balance governance assurance and hands-on delivery.

What you'll get in return
This is initially a 6-month temporary contract with a view to becoming permanent after that. If you'd like to lead high-impact projects that shape the future of the borough, enjoy a supportive environment with clear pathways for professional development and chartership, as well as work flexibly with a strong emphasis on work-life balance, this is the one!

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, please apply with an up-to-date copy of your CV. For a confidential discussion about your career, please contact us.