Project Manager in Portsmouth

Criterion Developments, our in-house Development Team, is seeking a proactive and delivery-oriented Project Manager to oversee a hotel project from planning to handover to our hotel operations team. The project will be delivered by a selected main contractor. This role requires someone who is able to challenge conventions, negotiate, procure and oversee external principal contractors, design teams and take ownership of projects.

You will report to the Senior Project Manager heading up D&B delivery within Criterion Developments. You will need to manage comprehensive project plans, outlining scopes, objectives, programme, resources, and budgets. Manage and deliver office-to-hotel conversion projects, extension and refurb projects, ensuring that each project adheres to quality standards, timelines, and budgetary constraints.

Develop comprehensive project plans, outline the scope, objectives, schedule, resources, and budget. Working with the Senior lead, develop Procurement Strategies for scheme delivery. Drive the project lifecycle, from planning through to project handover, ensuring clear progress and milestone achievements. Procure any required consultants, surveys or contractors. Working with pre-construction team members where needed. Negotiate contracts to obtain the best terms and value for the business.

Lead and coordinate diverse project teams, including internal staff, external contractors, and consultants, ensuring alignment with project goals. Obtain necessary permits and maintain accurate and organised project records, including contracts, change orders, and inspection reports. Interact and manage stakeholder relations, including tenants (with asset/property management colleagues). Knowledge and experience of tenant matters and Party Wall Act is helpful.

Identify potential risks and address and resolve any issues or conflicts that arise during the project lifecycle. 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 clients, stakeholders, and team members, providing detailed regular updates on project status.

Implement and enforce quality control measures and ensure compliance with safety regulations and promote a safe working environment. 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 7 years’ experience in construction project management gained in Consultancy and Main Contractors. PQS background would also be considered.
• Chartered in MRICS, MCIOB, MAPM or equivalent.
• A proven track record managing medium to large-scale conversions.
• Experience in the hotel and/or residential sector is a benefit.
• Degree in Project Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a construction field.
• A Masters degree or additional certifications (PMP, CCM) are a plus.
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, commercial acumen and negotiation skills.
• Proficient in project management software and tools (Asta Powerproject, Procore, ProcurPro).
• Initiative to challenge and drive projects forward.

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.