Senior Planning Manager

Cobalt Consulting (UK) Ltd; Cirencester; On-site; GBP 95,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy firm is looking for an Executive Consultant specializing in project planning and construction in Gloucestershire. The role requires expertise in the NEC form of contract and experience in managing large-scale projects worth over £20m. The successful candidate will lead planning strategies, coordinate teams, and support project delivery while ensuring effective communication and reporting. This position offers a salary up to £115k plus package/bonus.

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of the NEC form of contract and its application to contract processes.
• Expert understanding of construction methodology and procurement methods.
• High proficiency in producing clear reports and visual planning diagrams.

Responsibilities

• Lead project planning and delivery strategy for bids and projects.
• Prepare reports to keep the Senior Leadership Team informed on programme matters.
• Chair weekly planning meetings to coordinate project progress and manage milestones.

Skills

Proven practical experience working with the NEC form of contract

Skilled in using data tools for programme analysis and reporting

Strong grasp of key construction contracts and commercial terms

Excellent communication and presentation skills

Advanced use of Excel (formulas, pivot tables)

Tools

Primavera P6

Job description

Executive Consultant, Project Planning and Construction

Salary - Up to £115k plus package / bonus

Location Gloucestershire

About Our Client

Our client builds enduring partnerships, bringing together the right expertise, capabilities, and resources to deliver some of the most complex projects in the industry.

With decades of experience, they understand that successful delivery of multi‑year, complex projects relies on strong collaboration and close working relationships throughout the supply chain. That is why they share risk, invest in people, and prioritise relationships at every level.

Our client takes a proactive approach–anticipating challenges before they arise. Drawing on highly experienced, multi‑disciplinary teams, they bring fresh perspectives, tailoring their approach to meet the specific demands of each project, simplifying complexity, and minimising risk.

What We Are Recruiting For

We are seeking a Senior Planning Manager to join our client's Regions and Public Sector Construction business unit. This position will be based on‑site in Gloucestershire, with regular visits to the Birmingham regional office. The role covers projects and bids across both the private and public sectors, with values ranging from £20m to £300m+.

The successful applicant will have an in‑depth knowledge of the NEC form of contract and be able to demonstrate practical application of contractual processes and requirements related to programme, time, and compensation events. Please note this role is subject to the necessary security clearances.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop, in conjunction with the Project Team, the project planning, programme, and delivery strategy for both bids and projects.
• Shape the preconstruction and construction methodology to enable the most efficient and effective delivery of the project.
• Lead and produce the project plan, programme, and Planning Report for large or complex projects in accordance with company procedures.
• Provide experience‑based solutions and innovative approaches for successful project delivery.
• Report on project progress at regular intervals against contract and delivery programmes.
• Prepare reports and documentation to support the role of "project conscience", keeping the Senior Leadership Team and Business Unit informed on programme‑related matters.
• Use data analysis and lessons learned to anticipate potential delays, propose mitigation strategies, and advise the team accordingly.
• Support the creation and updating of medium‑ and short‑term programmes.
• Produce and maintain project control data, including regular status updates and weekly dashboards.
• Chair weekly planning meetings to coordinate project progress, update records, and manage key milestones.
• Review change proposals and assess time impacts of delays and compensation events.
• Record as‑built data and production rates for future benchmarking.
• Support and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in Planning Procedures and Processes.
• Coordinate the 4D BIM model in collaboration with the BIM Coordinator.
• Facilitate project team understanding and ownership of the programme.
• Mentor and support junior planning staff, promoting skill development and knowledge sharing across the team.

Experience & Background

• Proven practical experience working with the NEC form of contract.
• Skilled in using data tools for programme analysis and reporting.
• Expert understanding of construction methodology, building technology, pre‑construction processes, and procurement methods.
• Strong grasp of key construction contracts and commercial terms.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, adaptable to different audiences.
• High proficiency in producing clear reports and visual planning diagrams.
• Working knowledge of Primavera P6 and strong understanding of CPA planning techniques.
• Advanced use of Excel (formulas, pivot tables, etc.).