At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead AI-driven project optimisation for major infrastructure programmes using advanced digital tools.
- Company: Join Akordi, a rapidly growing subsidiary of Laing O'Rourke, at the forefront of construction innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on continuous learning and development.
- Why this job: Shape the future of construction with cutting-edge technology and make a real impact.
- 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 Planning Lead, 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.
As part of the Disability Confident scheme, we would like to enable access to candidates with long term conditions and disabilities through the ‘Offer an interview scheme'. This supports applicants that meet the essential criteria by offering an interview for the advertised position. Please let us know if you would like to opt in to this scheme and let us know if you require any adjustments for the interview process.
Planning Manager - AI Project Optimisation employer: Laing O'Rourke
Akordi is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and collaboration in the construction sector, offering a dynamic work environment in Dartford. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide access to cutting-edge AI tools and advanced analytics, empowering our team to tackle complex challenges while enhancing their skills. Join us to be part of a rapidly growing scale-up that values your contributions and fosters a culture of continuous improvement and inclusivity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Manager - AI Project Optimisation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to Akordi or similar companies. Attend events, webinars, or even local meet-ups to make those valuable connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your experience with AI tools and project optimisation. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, use this to demonstrate how you can add value to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to planning and construction. Think about how you can relate your past experiences to the role at Akordi. Confidence is key, so rehearse your answers until they feel natural!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at Akordi and ready to dive into the future of construction optimisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Manager - AI Project Optimisation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Planning Manager. Highlight your experience in construction and project optimisation, especially with AI tools. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're excited about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Be sure to mention any relevant projects you've worked on that showcase your planning expertise.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves a lot of data analysis and decision-making, make sure to include examples of how you've used analytics in past projects. We love seeing how you've turned data into actionable insights!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it's super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Laing O'Rourke
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you're well-versed in Primavera P6 and any other scheduling tools mentioned in the job description. Familiarise yourself with their features and how they can be applied to optimise project schedules. Being able to discuss specific examples of how you've used these tools in past projects will really impress your interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss how you've used data analysis to improve project outcomes. Think of specific instances where you identified risks or optimisation opportunities through simulations or modelling. This will demonstrate your ability to provide evidence-based insights, which is crucial for the role.
✨Understand the Industry Standards
Brush up on UK delivery frameworks like NEC, PACE, and GRIP/GRIP-Lite. Be ready to explain how you've applied these standards in your previous roles. Showing that you understand the regulatory landscape will give you an edge over other candidates.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll need to present findings in client workshops and meetings, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock presentations to friends or colleagues. This will help you feel more comfortable and ensure you can convey complex information effectively during the interview.
