Programme Controls Manager in Luton

The Project Controls Manager will help to lead the planning, cost, risk, and data management functions across a portfolio of complex, cross‑sector programmes. The role will be accountable for ensuring planning accuracy, consistency of approach, and the effective use of data analytics to enhance visibility, performance, and delivery confidence.

Responsibilities

• Lead the consistent implementation of project controls frameworks, tools, and reporting standards across all projects and sectors.
• Promote planning accuracy and integrity, ensuring project baselines and forecasts are robust, realistic, and data‑backed.
• Oversee cost, schedule, and risk integration to provide a clear and holistic view of performance at both project and portfolio levels.
• Ensure the creation and maintenance of detailed project schedules using Primavera P6 and related applications.
• Drive consistency of planning approach across projects, ensuring alignment with business standards and reporting cycles.
• Promote the use of accurate, data‑led planning to underpin credible forecasts and risk‑adjusted delivery plans.
• Champion the power of good planning – showing how accurate schedules and analytics drive informed decisions and improved outcomes.
• Champion data quality, governance, and analytics within all project controls activities.
• Help lead the integration of SAP and P6 data to support automated performance dashboards, trend analysis, and executive reporting.
• Develop and deliver meaningful analytics and insights that influence decision‑making and resource prioritisation.
• Embed robust risk and change‑management practices that support proactive control and accountability.
• Provide early warning through trend and variance analysis, enabling timely interventions to safeguard performance.
• Lead and inspire a team of project controllers, fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence, and continuous learning.
• Provide coaching and mentoring to develop capability, confidence, and consistency within the project controls and project management community.
• Engage and influence stakeholders at all levels, demonstrating the benefits of integrated planning and analytics in driving project success.
• Promote cross‑sector collaboration and the sharing of best practice to enhance organisational maturity in project controls.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Extensive experience in project controls leadership within complex, multi‑sector or large‑scale environments.
• Strong technical proficiency in Primavera P6, SAP, or associated project controls tools.
• Proven track record in planning accuracy, performance forecasting, and data‑driven decision support.
• Skilled in risk management, change control, earned value, and performance analysis.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence senior leaders.
• Experience in coaching, mentoring, and developing teams to achieve consistency and excellence.
• Degree in engineering, project management, or a related discipline; professional accreditation (APM, PMI, or equivalent) preferred.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical capability and delivery focus.
• Passionate about data quality and the use of analytics to drive project performance.
• Inspiring confidence and collaboration through leadership and clear communication.
• Advocates for best practice, continuous improvement, and cross‑sector alignment.

Pre‑employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). National Security Vetting may also apply – include eligibility for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).

Why join us

• Time to Recharge – generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi‑days each year.
• Secure your Future – award‑winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your Wellbeing Matters – free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee‑led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
• Rewarding Performance – employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Never Stop Learning – free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
• Refer a Friend – receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
• Tailored Perks – spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships, and more.
• Flexible working – flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.

Primary Location: GB – Edinburgh. Additional Locations: GB – Basildon, GB – Bristol – Others, GB – Luton – Cap. Green 300, GB – Southampton. Contract Type: Permanent. Hybrid Working: Hybrid.

Be part of something bigger – apply now!