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- Tasks: Lead large-scale projects, manage teams, and ensure timely delivery of high-quality work.
- Company: HDR is a collaborative company focused on creating a positive impact in communities worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive culture, employee ownership, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a diverse team where your ideas matter and you can make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Engineering with 15 years of experience, including project management.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive environment with various Employee Network Groups.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.
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At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:\’ and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.
About You
We are looking for someone who is personable self-starter with the ability to project a positive ‘can do’ professional attitude at all times maintaining good working relationships. Someone who enjoys working collaboratively across disciplines being able to establish excellent working rapport within the team, business and with clients, with the ability to work under pressure, handle a varied workload and keep to tight deadlines whilst maintaining the highest level of technical excellence.
Primary Objective
To manage effectively large-scale multidisciplinary teams on substations for mission critical projects, carry out sales and business development activities actively to support business growth and to ensure projects are delivered technically correct and on time, whilst maintaining the target profit level. Promote cross selling amongst the disciplines and liaise with other Senior Directors.
Responsibilities
Project Management
As Project Director take full responsibility and accountability for project performance (Technical, Programme and Commercial) for all disciplines that fall under the Lead consultant role.
It will be the Project Director who is ultimately accountable to ensure all disciplines falling under the role of Lead Consultant are fully co-ordinated, technically correct, to the required level of quality and commercially managed to ensure the project costs and revenue drive the profit targets for the project.
Financial Performance Reviews
- Accountable on a monthly basis the Project Job Costing Reports.
- Accountable on a monthly basis the reported Profit and Sales Figure
- Provide a quarterly written board report to be presented by others
- Accountable for the Input/Review/Action the following:
Sales Management/Business Development
- To maintain regular contact with Clients and build / foster relationship.
- Entertain Client and relevant colleagues.
- Agree fee basis and monthly draw down schedules.
- Agree deliverables directly with the Client and any policy decisions.
- Lead presentation for new projects and co-ordinate all other disciplines
- Project Director for all third party, (non-specialist), disciplines.
- Carry out all invoicing for all services or disciplines offered on time.
- Pursue all outstanding sales ledger debtors (60 days maximum target).
- Progress all sales opportunities.
- Ensure that all projects deliver the required profit target.
- Deal with any formal complaints directly.
- Carry out after sales and Client reviews.
- Develop sales contacts to expand marketing base of Practice.
- Develop new areas of activities for the Practice.
- Assist in Marketing and Corporate events.
- Assist other Directors in Sales & Marketing as required.
- Pursue sales leads generated by Business Development Dept.
General Duties
- Manage and control resource on projects.
- Ensure technical compliance and quality production of all deliverables
- Sign off all reports and deliverables
- Attend Client meetings/policy meetings.
- Ensure all deadlines are met.
- Liaise with all team members to ensure that all projects deliver minimum profit target
- Record any changes of scope, which may affect fee basis and advise KAH.
- Post contract completion and end of debtor’s reviews with client.
- To ensure that all project design responsibilities are effectively undertaken.
- Assist other Directors in Project Delivery as required.
- Structure training and succession of the teams to enhance performance and ensure future engineering expertise in Practice.
- Support the Management Team in running the Practice and assist in Quality Management Systems execution.
- Support the management of the practice taking on duties as agreed with the Office Principal and Tech Media Telecoms (TMT) Operational Directors.
- Undertake engineering activities on an as needs basis and where appropriate act as Design Team Leader.
- Ensure No Claims are made on PI, ensure all contract documents are diligently checked.
- Subject to approval – interview and recruit new team members.
- Control standard in – house technical documents and guides.
- Carry out third party design audit’s as necessary.
- Support to other directors in all fields including and not limited to; sales, resource control, problem solving, design advice.
- Review and sign off all direct reports’ timecards and expenses.
- Review direct reports’ utilisation vs target
- Authorise Holiday requests of direct reports.
- Maintain register and carry out technical audits on projects as required.
- Ensure Quality Management System ISO 9001and 14001.
Skills And Experience
- BEng, MSc or equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Building Services or relevant subject.
- Minimum 10 years of technical design experience with high voltage electrical switchyard and substation projects of varying complexity up to 765kV preferred.
- Experience of monitoring contract staff or third-party appointments would be desirable.
- Skills in project managing on-going jobs.
- Experience in the same or similar position is desired.
- Competency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook & PowerPoint.
- The ability to project a positive and professional attitude at all times.
- Incorporated Status in chosen discipline preferred and ongoing pursuit of Chartered status and business qualifications if not already achieved.
- Good knowledge and use of appropriate project and design analysis software.
- Able to establish rapport and good working relationships within the project team and Clients.
- Strong leadership and people management skills and experience.
- To be able to work as part as a team and collaboratively and co-operatively.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor\’s degree in Engineering
- 15 years related experience
- A minimum 7 years project management experience
- MS Office and MS Project experience is required (Access experience would be plus)
- Demonstrated leadership, business development and strategic planning skills
- An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must
What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other\’s life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.
Primary Location:
United Kingdom-England-London
Other Locations:
United Kingdom-England-Croydon, United Kingdom-England-Manchester
Industry:
Power
Schedule:
Full-time
Employee Status:
Regular
BusinessClass:
Program Management
Job Posting:
Jun 20, 2025
At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity. We are an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer ( We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.
Seniority level
-
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
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Employment type
Full-time
Job function
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Job function
Management, Consulting, and Engineering
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Industries
Oil and Gas, Utilities, and Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing
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Project Director - Substations employer: HDR
Contact Detail:
HDR Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Director - Substations
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the electrical engineering and project management fields. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues or clients who might provide insights into HDR's culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with HDR's recent projects and initiatives, especially those related to substations. This knowledge will not only help you understand their business better but also allow you to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your leadership skills by sharing specific examples of how you've successfully managed multidisciplinary teams in past projects. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and maintain positive relationships, as these are key traits they are looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to business development and client relationship management. Be ready to share strategies you've used to build rapport with clients and how you've contributed to sales growth in previous roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Director - Substations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in project management, particularly in high voltage electrical switchyard and substation projects. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership and technical skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your understanding of HDR's values and culture. Emphasise your ability to foster relationships and work collaboratively, as well as your commitment to delivering projects on time and within budget.
Showcase Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your competencies in MS Office, project management software, and any other relevant tools. Highlight your experience in business development and strategic planning, as these are key aspects of the role.
Demonstrate Cultural Fit: Reflect on how your personal values align with HDR's commitment to inclusivity and employee ownership. Mention any experiences that showcase your ability to contribute positively to a team environment and support diverse perspectives.
How to prepare for a job interview at HDR
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Project Director, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Be prepared to discuss your past experiences in managing teams and projects, highlighting how you motivated your team and resolved conflicts.
✨Understand the Company Culture
HDR values an inclusive environment where everyone is respected and empowered. Research their culture and be ready to explain how your values align with theirs, showcasing your commitment to fostering collaboration and inclusion.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the technical nature of the role, brush up on your knowledge of high voltage electrical switchyard and substation projects. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, demonstrating your technical expertise.
✨Demonstrate Business Acumen
The role involves sales and business development activities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed client relationships, negotiated contracts, and contributed to business growth in your previous roles.
