Director - Programme Planning in London

A senior leadership role responsible for setting and driving the planning strategy across the Development and Construction Group. The incumbent provides strategic leadership to planning teams, influences project delivery strategy, manages risks and opportunities and plays a key role in risk management and governance. To develop, implement and maintain a core process that will satisfy the current and future planning needs of CWCL.

Main Responsibilities

• Monitor the planning process, review project performance and progress updates against agreed targets and benchmarks, carry out periodic audits and provide executive reporting on the various projects.
• Set performance standards, targets and benchmarks for all projects, with Directors, Associate Directors, Project Executives and Senior Managers.
• Co‑ordinate the interface between the various projects and the overall infrastructure programme and assist in developing wharf‑wide logistics strategy.
• Provide planning input, develop construction methods and strategies and co‑ordinate construction feasibility studies on all new and future developments.
• Support the Business Development Group and Leasing in developing realistic, achievable schedules aligned with business objectives.
• Provide planning input and programme feasibility studies for RFPs and all programmes and information schedules required for Tenant Agreements.
• Implement planning set up and procedures on all new projects and provide planning input/support from Project Initiation through to Business Development Group handover to Project Team.
• Throughout Project Initiation and Business Development Group handover to Project Team, identify programme risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Assess the impact of change events on programme and project delivery.
• Develop and maintain CWCL planning procedures including internal/external reporting.
• Ensure standardisation of all formats across the company.
• Develop and co‑ordinate the progress and performance ‘feedback’ from all projects for the CWCL Knowledge and Information Database.
• Develop and implement the use of ‘kit of parts’ programming procedures, including ‘best practice’ planning templates, proforma’s etc for all project phases, key stages and systems.
• Determine ongoing planning requirements, recruit & assign planners to the various projects.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive programme to develop the skills & competencies of the planning community to be sector‑leading, to include leading planning recruitment and resource management, developing and implementing strategies to both retain and develop planners throughout the business, with clear career paths and ensure all projects have appropriate effective planning and controls in place.
• Ensure that all planners receive the necessary support, training and coaching to achieve and maintain the required company standards.
• Carry out periodic performance reviews of all planners against established quality objectives to define training needs and personal development programmes.
• Creates and communicates a shared vision which inspires enthusiasm and commitment to achieve organisational goals which then encourages innovation and new ideas.
• Specify all planning software and hardware requirements, access permissions, file structures, data exchange, etc.
• Utilises 4D planning tools, digital construction and BIM integration where required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of planning process and digital tools, plus support data‑driven planning and reporting approach.

Person Specification

• A technical qualification within architecture, engineering or building together with a relevant professional qualification is essential.
• Recognised as an industry expert.
• Is accountable through the leadership of the planning community, and the planning leadership throughout the business.
• Extensive planning experience within fast‑track, multi‑phased, large‑scale refurbishment and major construction projects is essential.
• Knowledge and understanding of civil, structural, architectural and services trades and their relationship and integration into the building whole.
• Experience in works including bored & sheet piling, bulk excavations, deep basements, and a detailed understanding of commercial buildings construction is essential.
• It is essential that the post holder is fully familiar with modern planning techniques and proficient in the use of Planning Software, particularly Asta.
• An understanding of Construction Management philosophy and procurement process is essential.
• The post holder must be able to demonstrate self‑management, initiative and an ability to think analytically.
• Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written) and organisation skills are essential.
• It is essential that the post holder be a Team Player who can add value to the management process and encourage, co‑ordinate and articulate the contributions of all members.
• Excellent IT skills with knowledge of Microsoft Office Packages, particularly Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and good numeric skills are essential.
• Experience of Document Management Software is desirable.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships and influence decision‑making at all levels are essential.
• The ability to deliver to tight deadlines is required.
• Commitment to continuing professional development is highly desirable.

Health Safety And Welfare Responsibilities

All staff are required to fulfil their legal duty to take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves and others who may be affected by their acts and omissions, and to follow all guidance and instructions given in this respect.

Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Responsibilities

Recognising the centrality of ESG principles within our organisation, we have developed a comprehensive ESG Strategy. It is imperative that all staff members understand and adopt this strategy into their respective roles. This includes adhering to environmental regulations, minimising waste, supporting nature within our urban environment, and facilitating positive change for those in need within our community and utilising our volunteering.

Quality Management Responsibilities

In line with the latest ISO 9001 requirements and our dedication to quality management, all staff are mandated to comply with system requirements as detailed within the Company Quality Manual & Policies. Additionally, it is vital to ensure the effective implementation of all Procedures, Plans, and Forms within our Electronic Document Management Systems (EDMS) to meet the ISO 9001: Quality Management Standard.

What We Offer

• Diversity and Inclusion: We recognise the importance of embracing diverse experience, skills and perspectives at all levels and operating in an inclusive working environment, in order for everyone to reach their full potential. We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and skills and are committed to fostering a culture whereby everyone can reach their full potential.
• Flexible Working: As an inclusive employer, we recognise the positive impact flexible working can have on an individual, their wellbeing, engagement and productivity. Therefore, we are open to consider flexible working arrangements, both temporary or permanent.
• Learning and Development: We offer development opportunities through classroom and e‑learning training, mentoring, cross department experience and on‑the‑job learning. We heavily invest in our staff attaining accreditations to develop existing and new skills, support chartered status, sponsorships and provide further educational opportunities which are job and business related.
• Other Benefits: We are committed to building a safe, happy and healthy community for our employees and we offer a comprehensive range of benefits, all designed with our employees and their wellbeing in mind. From generous pension and insurance plans, to health benefits, subsidised gym membership, store discounts and family leave, our benefits package allows our employees to choose the benefits that suit them and their individual needs.

Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to appoint at any point.