At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major education projects and inspire teams to deliver excellence.
- Company: Wates Construction, a respected family-owned Tier 1 contractor.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, executive benefits, and career progression in a supportive environment.
- Other info: Join a collaborative culture focused on wellbeing and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education and contribute to future generations.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior operational roles and delivering education projects.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
About Wates Construction
Wates Construction is one of the UK's most respected and long established Tier 1 contractors. As a family owned business, we are proud of our long term outlook, people first culture, and commitment to delivering excellence with integrity. Our Construction London teams work collaboratively to deliver major, complex projects that leave a lasting positive legacy in the communities we serve. Education is a core sector for Wates, and we are a trusted delivery partner on Department for Education frameworks, delivering high quality, safe, and sustainable learning environments across the capital.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Operations Director to provide strategic and operational leadership across a portfolio of major education projects, delivered through our DfE frameworks in London. This is a critical senior leadership position, responsible for overseeing the successful planning and execution of projects from pre-construction through to completion. You will lead multiple project teams, ensure operational excellence, and act as a senior point of contact for clients and key stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and oversee the delivery of major school and education projects within the DfE framework portfolio
- Drive best in class performance across safety, quality, programme, and commercial outcomes
- Provide inspirational leadership to Project Directors, Project Managers, and site teams
- Ensure robust governance, risk management, and compliance with all statutory and contractual requirements
- Build strong, trusted relationships with DfE, consultants, supply chain partners, and internal stakeholders
- Collaborate closely with Commercial, Pre Construction, Design, and Sustainability teams
- Promote and embed Wates' values, behaviours, and commitment to wellbeing and social value
- Contribute to regional strategy, continuous improvement, and long term business growth
About You
- Proven experience in a senior operational leadership role within a Tier 1 main contractor
- Essential experience delivering schools or education projects, ideally within DfE or similar public sector frameworks
- Strong track record of managing complex, multi-project portfolios in live or sensitive environments
- Highly competent in managing programme certainty, risk, and commercial performance
- An inclusive, values led leader with the ability to motivate and develop high performing teams
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with confidence operating at client and board level
Why Join Wates Construction London?
- A rare opportunity to lead high profile education projects that make a real difference to future generations
- Work within a family owned, purpose driven organisation with long term stability
- A collaborative culture that genuinely prioritises people, wellbeing, and development
- Strong commitment to sustainability, social value, and responsible construction
- Competitive salary, executive level benefits, and long term career progression
Project Director in London employer: Job Search Place Limited
Wates Construction is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead impactful education projects that shape the future of communities in London. As a family-owned business, we foster a collaborative culture prioritising employee wellbeing and development, alongside a strong commitment to sustainability and social value. With competitive salaries and clear pathways for career progression, Wates is dedicated to nurturing talent and ensuring long-term stability for its team members.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Director in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at Wates Construction. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in leading teams and managing complex projects. Share specific examples of how you've driven performance and built strong relationships in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework on Wates Construction and their projects. Be ready to discuss how your values align with theirs, especially around sustainability and social value. This shows you're not just looking for any job, but that you genuinely want to be part of their mission.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and really interested in joining the Wates family.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Project Director role. Highlight your experience in leading education projects and managing complex portfolios. We want to see how your skills align with our values and the specific requirements of the job.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about education projects and how you embody our people-first culture. Be genuine and let your personality come through, as we value authenticity.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In your application, make sure to showcase your leadership style and how you motivate teams. We’re looking for someone who can inspire others and drive best-in-class performance, so share examples that demonstrate your approach.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about Wates Construction and our values.
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the major education projects Wates Construction has delivered. Familiarise yourself with their approach to safety, quality, and sustainability. This will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to discuss how your experience aligns with their values.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential Operations Director, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've inspired and developed teams in previous roles. Highlight specific instances where your leadership made a tangible difference in project outcomes or team performance.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Management Questions
Expect questions about your experience with stakeholder management, especially at client and board levels. Think of scenarios where you've built strong relationships with clients or partners, and be ready to discuss how you navigated challenges while maintaining those relationships.
✨Align with Wates' Values
Wates Construction prides itself on its people-first culture and commitment to social value. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs. Share examples of how you've prioritised wellbeing and social responsibility in your previous projects to demonstrate that you're a good cultural fit.
