At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the pre-construction process for a major 18MW data centre project.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on large-scale infrastructure in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, career progression, and a collaborative work culture.
- Why this job: Shape critical infrastructure projects and engage with industry-leading clients.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in project management, especially in complex construction environments.
- Other info: This role offers hybrid flexibility and the chance to drive impactful projects.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 110000 £ per year.
We’re seeking an experienced Senior Pre-Construction Project Manager to lead the early project lifecycle of a major 18MW data centre build in London. This role is central to ensuring a smooth transition from concept to site, working across design coordination, programme management, civils, groundworks, procurement, and contractor engagement.
You’ll be the key interface between the client, design team, and delivery partners—driving performance, managing risks, and ensuring the project is fully scoped and aligned before breaking ground. This is a career-defining opportunity for a proactive construction professional who thrives on complex builds, tight timelines, and large-scale infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities- Own and lead the full pre-construction process for a major 18MW hyperscale data centre
- Develop and manage detailed preconstruction programmes, logistics plans, and procurement strategies
- Oversee civils, groundworks, and abnormal site conditions—ensuring all enabling works are scoped, costed, and sequenced appropriately
- Coordinate multidisciplinary design teams and ensure integration across architectural, structural, and MEP packages
- Engage and manage specialist trade contractors early to support buildability reviews and cost planning
- Drive early-stage client reporting and stakeholder updates, including risk registers, value engineering initiatives, and gateway approvals
- Liaise with planners, cost consultants, and internal delivery teams to ensure seamless handover to construction
- Identify and mitigate risks relating to ground conditions, utilities, permitting, and statutory compliance
- Proven experience in a Pre-Construction Project Manager or Senior Project Manager role—ideally client-side or consultancy-based
- Strong background in civils, groundworks, and enabling works on complex construction projects
- Experience working on data centres, industrial, life sciences, logistics, or M&E-heavy commercial schemes
- Deep understanding of the preconstruction lifecycle, including procurement, programme, technical coordination, and contractor management
- Highly organised, detail-focused, and confident interfacing with senior stakeholders
- Able to lead from the front in a fast-moving environment with minimal supervision
- Competitive salary in the region of £90,000 – £110,000 plus package
- Career progression on major data centre and infrastructure projects across the UK and Europe
- A high-performing, collaborative team culture with autonomy and support in equal measure
- Exposure to industry-leading clients, Tier 1 contractors, and fast-track builds
This is a unique opportunity to shape a large-scale critical infrastructure project from day one. If you’re motivated by complex delivery challenges, strong stakeholder engagement, and making things happen before spades hit the ground—this one’s for you.
Senior Project Manager employer: Keyman Personnel
Contact Detail:
Keyman Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Project Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the construction and data centre sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues and clients. Building relationships can often lead to job opportunities that aren't advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in data centre construction. Being knowledgeable about innovations in the field can set you apart during interviews and discussions with stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with complex projects in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed risks, coordinated teams, and delivered results under tight timelines, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's values and culture. Understanding our mission and how we operate will help you align your responses during interviews, demonstrating that you're a good fit for our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in pre-construction project management, especially with data centres or similar large-scale projects. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in managing complex builds and stakeholder engagement.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that directly addresses the key responsibilities and requirements outlined in the job description. Emphasise your proven experience in civils and groundworks, and how you can lead the pre-construction process effectively.
Showcase Relevant Projects: In your application, include details of specific projects you've managed that align with the role. Highlight your achievements in managing risks, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring seamless transitions from concept to site.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your documents for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Senior Project Manager role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Keyman Personnel
✨Showcase Your Project Management Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous roles in detail, especially those related to pre-construction and large-scale projects. Highlight specific examples where you successfully managed complex builds, focusing on your ability to lead teams and coordinate with various stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with the technical aspects of data centre construction, including civils, groundworks, and MEP systems. Be ready to answer questions about how you would approach challenges in these areas, showcasing your understanding of the preconstruction lifecycle.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Scenarios
Since this role involves significant interaction with clients and delivery partners, think of examples where you've effectively communicated and managed expectations. Prepare to discuss how you handle conflicts or differing opinions among stakeholders.
✨Research the Company and Project
Understand the company's values, recent projects, and their approach to construction. Being knowledgeable about the specific 18MW data centre project will demonstrate your genuine interest and help you align your answers with their goals during the interview.