At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead project planning for innovative Life Sciences and Pharmaceuticals projects.
- Company: Mace, a leader in construction and consultancy with a focus on ambition.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with strong emphasis on mentorship and innovation.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team tackling complex projects that make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Experience in project planning within regulated environments is essential.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition. Our values shape the way we consult and define the people we want to join us on our journey.
We are seeking an experienced Planning Manager to join our growing Life Sciences and Pharmaceuticals team, supporting the delivery of complex capital projects for leading pharmaceutical, biotechnology, research and advanced manufacturing organisations. This is an exciting opportunity to work on some of the industry's most challenging and technically sophisticated programmes, ranging from research and development laboratories, advanced manufacturing and GMP facilities through to highly serviced production, cleanroom and technical environments. Our work spans the full project lifecycle, from feasibility and concept design through procurement, construction, commissioning and operational readiness.
The successful candidate will bring strong project planning and scheduling experience, ideally gained within the Life Sciences, Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, Healthcare or Advanced Manufacturing sectors. Experience in highly regulated environments, laboratory facilities, cleanrooms, production facilities or other technically complex projects is highly desirable. Candidates from comparable sectors such as advanced technology, data centres, semiconductor, energy or major healthcare projects will also be considered.
Working closely with clients, project managers, designers, contractors and delivery teams, you will play a key role in developing, managing and assuring project schedules, supporting informed decision-making and enabling successful project outcomes. The role will involve:
- Programme development, progress monitoring, performance reporting, schedule risk analysis and the implementation of planning best practice across projects and programmes.
- Developing, maintaining and managing integrated project and programme schedules across all phases of delivery.
- Supporting project teams with schedule development, progress monitoring, critical path analysis and forecasting.
- Providing clear programme reporting, performance analysis and schedule insights to clients and senior stakeholders.
- Working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to identify risks, opportunities and programme optimisation strategies.
- Supporting bids, tenders and project mobilisation activities through the development of robust delivery programmes.
- Contributing to successful project outcomes through proactive planning, controls and governance.
- Ensuring planning activities are delivered to the highest professional and ethical standards.
- Supporting robust governance, reporting and assurance processes across projects and programmes.
- Promoting sustainable project delivery by considering programme efficiencies and project outcomes.
- Upholding Mace's values and contribute positively to our clients, teams and communities.
- Supporting the development of planning capability across the Life Sciences team through collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Engaging with Mace's Centres of Excellence, digital teams and planning communities to drive innovation and best practice.
- Mentoring and supporting junior planners and project controls professionals where appropriate.
- Building strong relationships with clients and project stakeholders, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
Proven planning experience within complex, regulated capital projects. Proficient in Primavera P6/MS Project, programme management and critical path analysis. Strong stakeholder engagement, project controls and commercial awareness. We own the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes and build long term relationships with our clients. We influence positive outcomes within our industry, while always aligning with our compliance obligations.
Create opportunity - For our people to excel: We are also open to discussing part time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable within the role.
Planning & Strategy Manager in Manchester employer: Mace group
Mace is an exceptional employer that prioritises safety, diversity, and inclusivity, fostering a supportive work environment where every team member can thrive. As part of the Sizewell C project, you will engage in meaningful work at the forefront of the UK's climate change agenda, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Our commitment to flexible working arrangements ensures that you can balance your career ambitions with personal well-being, making Mace a truly rewarding place to build your career.
