At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead project optimisation using AI tools and construction expertise for major infrastructure programmes.
- Company: Join Akordi, a rapidly growing subsidiary of Laing O'Rourke, at the forefront of construction innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of construction with cutting-edge technology and impactful projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in construction planning and proficiency in scheduling tools like Primavera P6.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward‑thinking team working at the cutting edge of project optimisation for major infrastructure programmes. As a Senior Optimisation Manager you will combine advanced digital tools, AI‑enabled analytics and real‑world construction expertise to provide insights that increase planning certainty and improve delivery outcomes across rail, highways, energy, utilities and major capital programmes. You will work closely with senior project leaders to shape smarter, more predictable project performance.
About Akordi: Akordi provides AI‑driven intelligence services for construction and infrastructure projects. We are growing rapidly, moving from start‑up to scale‑up, and work with government bodies, major developers and contractors to solve complex delivery challenges using decision intelligence and advanced analytics.
What you will do:
- Perform simulations and modelling to support decisions on staging, sequencing, planning, scheduling and re‑baselining.
- Use Akordi's AI‑enabled tools and your planning and construction expertise to analyse schedules and identify optimisation opportunities across time, cost, risk and resources.
- Review past performance to extract lessons learned and highlight opportunities for improvement.
- Identify critical schedule risks, develop and validate mitigation options with delivery teams.
- Produce clear, evidence‑based insights, reports and visualisations tailored to diverse client needs.
- Work closely with the Solutions Delivery Lead and global experts to align and develop our services.
- Present findings confidently in client workshops, schedule reviews and planning meetings.
- Ensure all assessments comply with UK delivery frameworks such as NEC, PACE and GRIP/GRIP‑Lite.
What you will bring:
- Experience in construction or infrastructure, including major UK projects.
- Experience of hands‑on planning experience (site or project office).
- Strong capability in developing and optimising master schedules for complex programmes.
- Expert proficiency in Primavera P6 and solid knowledge of other scheduling/project controls tools.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, construction methodologies and phasing strategies.
- Strong analytical, communication, presentation and report‑writing skills.
- Highly organised, proactive, and comfortable working independently in fast‑paced environments.
- A collaborative, client‑focused approach with the ability to work in a small delivery team.
- Curiosity and adaptability, with a strong appetite for using new optimisation tools and techniques.
About Us: Laing O'Rourke are an international engineering and construction company delivering state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure and buildings projects for clients in the UK, Middle East and Australia. Certainty, reliability, quality – this is what our clients want. And at Laing O'Rourke, we have more than 150 years of experience delivering it.
Planning Manager - Project Optimisation in Kent employer: Laing O'Rourke
Akordi, a subsidiary of Laing O'Rourke, is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and innovative work culture, perfect for those passionate about the future of construction optimisation. With a focus on employee growth, we offer opportunities to engage with cutting-edge AI-driven tools and collaborate with industry experts, all while working in a flexible environment in Dartford or beyond. Join us to be part of a rapidly growing team that values creativity, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence in delivering major infrastructure projects.
