At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning for exciting projects in the Roads sector and ensure alignment with business goals.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company committed to innovation and teamwork.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and collaboration in a regulated environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving project success and improving processes.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning, team management, and proficiency in Primavera (P6) required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
As a Planning Manager, you will be responsible for the planning function in the project, programme or portfolio, working with stakeholders to resource, manage and assure projects/programmes. You will ensure visibility and alignment of programmes with business plans and Performance Commitments throughout. Working in the Roads sector producing tender, design and preparation for construction programmes prior to site works commencing.
Responsibilities
- Provide visible and effective leadership, where necessary lead the planning team and work with the project/programme manager to deliver the business case benefits and outcomes.
- Define the planner resource strategy for the project, support planner recruitment and oversee their development.
- Oversee the interfacing and integration with the project controls team to maintain an aligned financial position with the Project/Programme Plan.
- Lead planner capability building and the use of best practice in planning and reporting.
- Develop clear vision and standards and champion the use of best practice project planning standards, tools and processes.
- Build strong networks both internally and externally.
- Work with the senior management team to ensure the programme accurately reflects the state of the project/programme.
- Review performance data, looking at trends to identify areas for improvement and collaboration, and selecting appropriate methods and tools to resolve them.
- Provide quality assurance, complete peer reviews, deep dives and problem solve.
Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
- The confidence to manage teams and communicate at all levels, driving commitments and improvements to meet commercial and technical objectives and deadlines.
- Extensive training and experience with Primavera (P6).
- Proficient in the interpretation of Earned Value Analysis.
- Experience in the interpretation of estimating, scheduling, programming and risk tools.
- High level of numeracy and excellent analytical skills.
- Excellent MS Office skills.
Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
- Working knowledge of reporting tools including Power Bi.
- Training and experience of other planning tools, not just P6.
- Recent experience in the forming and development of teams.
- Relevant experience in Project Controls and/or Project Delivery, preferably in a highly regulated environment.
- Working knowledge of relevant Health and Safety legislation.
- Roads experience.
Essential Qualifications
- HNC/HND, degree qualified or experience in a planning related discipline.
Desirable Qualifications
- APM Project Management Qualification.
- APMG Managing Successful Programmes – foundation level.
- APMG International Project Planning and Control Practitioner or equivalent.
- PMI Scheduling Professional (PMI-SP).
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that discloses they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer.
Planning Manager employer: Costain
As a Planning Manager in our dynamic organisation, you will thrive in a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and collaboration. We offer extensive training opportunities, a commitment to best practices in project planning, and the chance to lead a talented team in the Roads sector, all while enjoying the benefits of working in a forward-thinking environment that values innovation and inclusivity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Manager
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Costain, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Planning Manager at Costain.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Costain
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
