Project Manager

Watkin Jones PLC; Guildford; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Work‑Life Balance

Hybrid working arrangements

Discretionary annual bonus

Job summary

Watkin Jones PLC is delivering a £60 million student accommodation project in Guildford and seeks an experienced Project Manager to drive on-site delivery, safety, quality and profitability. You will oversee subcontractors, consultants, and stakeholders, reporting to the Construction Director and ensuring programmes and budgets are met.

The role requires an NVQ 4/HND/Degree in construction or PM, SMSTS, CSCS, and strong IT skills.

Qualifications

• Hold an NVQ Level 4, HND, or Degree in Construction, Development, Project Management, or a related discipline, with SMSTS qualification and CSCS card.
• Demonstrated understanding of the full construction build sequence and industry best practice in project management.

Responsibilities

• Act as primary client contact and manage communications throughout the project lifecycle.
• Coordinate site operations, subcontractors, consultants and stakeholders to meet programme deadlines.
• Develop and present project progress reports and assist in formulating contract programmes and delivery strategies.
• Oversee pre-construction through completion, maintaining risk registers and mitigation plans.

Skills

Project management

Client management

Risk management

Health & safety

Contract law

Education

NVQ Level 4

HND or Degree in Construction/PM

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Watkin Jones is seeking an experienced and driven Project Manager to lead the delivery of an exciting £60 million student accommodation development in Guildford. Supported by the University of Surrey, the scheme will provide high-quality living accommodation for up to 366 students, comprising 105 studios and 261 en‑suite bedrooms arranged around vibrant communal kitchen and social spaces.

You will be responsible for ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards, while maintaining profitability and delivering value for our clients.

As Project Manager, you will oversee the management and coordination of site operations, subcontractors, consultants, and key stakeholders, acting as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

Project Delivery & Client Management

• Act as the primary point of contact for clients, ensuring clear communication and excellent service throughout the project.
• Work with the Construction Director to ensure the successful delivery of construction projects.
• Develop and present project progress reports internally and to clients.
• Assist the Construction Director in formulating and agreeing contract programmes and project delivery strategies.
• Ensure design development progresses in line with programme requirements.
• Manage project risks, maintaining and communicating risk registers and mitigation plans.

Site & Construction Management

• Oversee and coordinate site activities, subcontractors, and project teams.
• Ensure compliance with all health and safety, security, and fire safety requirements.
• Delegate work packages effectively across the project team.
• Attend and contribute to all pre‑order, pre‑start, handover, and stakeholder meetings.
• Monitor procurement activities to ensure orders are placed in a timely manner to maintain programme deadlines.

About you:

You will hold an NVQ Level 4, HND, or Degree in Construction, Development, Project Management, or a related discipline, together with a valid SMSTS qualification and CSCS card. You will possess a strong understanding of the full construction build sequence and industry best practice in project management, with the ability to effectively oversee projects from pre‑construction through to completion. A good awareness of current market trends and developments within the construction and development industry is essential, while knowledge of contract law would be advantageous. Strong IT skills are also required, including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, enabling you to manage reporting, documentation, and project communications effectively.

Why Choose Watkin Jones Group?

Watkin Jones Group is the UK’s leading developer, builder, and manager of residential‑for‑rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000+ homes developed and in‑build across over 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 18,500 units across 58 schemes, representing approximately £1.7 bn of assets under management.

Joining us means becoming part of a company that’s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We’re committed to creating high‑quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development.

At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people. Here’s what we can offer you:

• Work‑Life Balance:25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), hybrid working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.
• Wellbeing:Access to‘Your Wellbeing’ programme & OpenUp – a confidential wellbeing platform.
• Rewards:Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
• Benefits:Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.

This is an opportunity to take on a high‑impact role within a forward‑thinking company. In return, we offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the chance to work on major projects that shape the built environment.

#INDWJ