At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead PMO and Project Controls services for major defence programmes, ensuring top-notch delivery and governance.
- Company: Mace, a dynamic construction consultancy redefining ambition in the industry.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, medical cover, life insurance, generous leave, and continuous development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with flexible working options and excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Join a forward-thinking team and make a real impact in the defence sector.
- Qualifications: Leadership experience in PMO and Project Controls, with strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ 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 looking to appoint an
- Operations Director - Project Controls to join our Defence team in
Preston , supporting a major long-term programme operating within air system and Defence environments.
In this role, you will provide leadership and oversight of PMO and Project Controls services across complex programmes, ensuring the successful delivery of industry leading controls, governance, risk and performance management solutions.
You will act as the subject matter expert for Project Controls, driving best practice, supporting high performing teams and partnering with clients to deliver successful outcomes in a secure and highly regulated environment.
The role is due to commence in late autumn to early winter and sits within an integrated client team operating in a secure and highly regulated environment.
This candidate should have eligibility to obtain and maintain UK security clearance (SC).
You’ll be responsible for
- Managing the delivery and performance of PMO and Project Controls services across major programmes and projects.
- Ensuring Project Controls, PMO and Risk Management services are aligned with industry best practice and relevant international standards.
- Acting as the senior Project Controls subject matter expert, providing technical leadership and support to project teams and stakeholders.
- Developing and implementing robust Project Controls strategies, frameworks and integrated controls methodologies.
- Providing governance, assurance and oversight across planning, risk, reporting, performance management and controls functions.
- Building trusted client relationships, providing expert advice and exceeding client expectations.
- Managing, mentoring and developing Project Controls teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
- Supporting business growth through bid activities, client engagement and promotion of Project Controls best practice.
- Driving the adoption of digital solutions, data analytics and innovative reporting capabilities across programmes.
- Supporting the delivery of net zero carbon objectives through proactive identification and management of associated impacts.
You’ll need to have
- Significant leadership experience delivering PMO and Project Controls services on major infrastructure, construction, defence or complex transformation programmes.
- Strong experience developing and implementing Project Controls strategies, governance frameworks and integrated controls methodologies.
- Expert knowledge of Project Controls tools and software such as Primavera P6, Risk Hive, Primavera Risk Analysis, Power BI and other reporting platforms.
- Strong commercial awareness with experience building client relationships and supporting business development activities.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management and leadership skills with the ability to influence at senior levels.
- A relevant degree and Chartered status (or working towards) through a recognised professional institution such as APM or equivalent.
What’s on offer
- Car allowance.
- Hybrid working.
- Medical health cover.
- Life insurance.
- Income protection insurance.
- Pension scheme.
- Discretionary annual salary reviews.
- Family friendly policies.
- 22 days annual leave + 2 Mace days + 3 days Christmas shutdown + 1 additional day leave for every 2 years of service + Bank holidays.
Our values
Safety first - Going home safe and well\
We champion a safe, diverse and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of wellbeing in every team.
Client focus - Deliver on our promise\
We own the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes and build long term relationships with our clients.
Integrity - Always do the right thing\
We influence positive outcomes within our industry, while always aligning with our compliance obligations.
Create opportunity - For our people to excel\
We champion a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities, inspiring our people and teams to develop.
Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates.
Even if you feel you do not fulfil all the criteria, please apply as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation.
We are also open to discussing part time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable with-in the role.
#LI-Onsite
Operations Director - Project Controls in Preston employer: Mace
Mace Construct Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide ample opportunities for growth and advancement within our Public, Science & Technology Business Unit, ensuring that our team members are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles. Our culture prioritises safety, quality, and continuous improvement, making it a rewarding place for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the hyperscale data centre sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director - Project Controls in Preston
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Mace, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Operations Director - Project Controls at Mace.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director - Project Controls in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mace
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
