Pre-Construction Director

Criterion Capital is an entrepreneurial hands-on developer and asset manager of Residential, Hotel, and Commercial properties. We have a vertically integrated platform of sector specialists that convert end of life buildings to residential and hotel uses. We recognise that we do not know everything and succeed through continued iteration and the determination to focus on key priorities, to remove obstacles and keeping it simple.

Role Overview:

Piccadilly Construction, our in-house Contraction Management Team, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Pre-Construction Director to join our team, working as a vital bridge between our in-house design and construction teams. This role is central to delivering successful office-to-hotel conversions and PRS (Private Rented Sector) developments for a business that acts as a developer, asset manager, and owner/operator of long-term hospitality and residential assets.

The Pre-Construction Director will lead the management of RIBA Stages 1-3, ensuring the development of robust designs, comprehensive client briefs, and the mitigation of risks before projects are handed over to the construction team. This role requires close collaboration with design, construction, asset management, and operations teams to align on project objectives and ensure seamless delivery.

• Oversee and deliver the pre-construction phase of multiple office-to-hotel conversion projects simultaneously, ensuring that each project adheres to quality standards, timelines, and budgetary constraints.
• Develop comprehensive project plans outlining the scope, objectives, schedule, resources, and budget.
• Drive the pre-construction delivery through to handover to Construction, ensuring clear progress tracking and milestone achievements.
• Lead and coordinate diverse project teams, including internal staff, external contractors, and consultants, ensuring alignment with project goals.
• Identify scope of surveys required to inform the design and de-risk construction.
• Identify and procure enabling works to de-risk construction
• Negotiate contracts to obtain the best terms and value for the business.
• Create detailed project timelines and milestones, ensuring adherence to project schedules.
• Identify potential risks and address and resolve any issues or conflicts that arise pre-construction
• Closely manage and challenge design teams and other construction professionals to ensure alignment with the project objectives.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for internal client, stakeholders, and team members, providing regular updates on project status
• Work closely with the design team and operations to develop the Project/Client Brief and Employer’s Requirements
• Implement and enforce quality control measures and ensure compliance with safety regulations and promote a safe working environment.
• Work closely with Design and Head of Planning and Design to manage planning and clear conditions where appropriate during the pre-construction phase
• Maintain accurate and organised project records, including contracts, change orders, and inspection reports and ensure all documentation is up to date and in compliance with local regulations

About You:

A minimum of 15 years’ experience in pre-construction project management

A proven track record managing medium to large-scale conversions.

Experience in the hotel and/or residential sector is a plus.

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.

A Masters degree or additional certifications (PMP, CCM) are a plus.

Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and regulations.

Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.

Proficient in project management software and tools (MS Project, Procore, Primavera).

Initiative to challenge and drive projects forward.