Site Establishment Lead

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 have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Site Establishment Lead to join our Defence team in Reading, working on a complex and high‑profile infrastructure programme. Reporting to the Programme Integration Director, you will play a key role in managing the integration of construction logistics across multiple projects, ensuring operations are carefully planned, coordinated, and delivered effectively within a live estate environment. You will be responsible for driving the safe and efficient delivery of logistics activities through third party contractors, optimising construction planning and operations, and working closely with project teams and wider estate stakeholders to ensure seamless, well‑controlled delivery throughout the programme lifecycle.

Please note: Due to the security requirements of the role, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK security clearance.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Directing the planning, integration and delivery of construction logistics operations across the programme.
• Protecting the day-to-day operation of the wider estate, ensuring all activities are carefully planned to minimise disruption.
• Driving a strong health, safety and wellbeing culture, ensuring full compliance with statutory and programme requirements.
• Managing and overseeing third-party contractors, including procurement, mobilisation, performance management and day-to-day operations.
• Translating site establishment objectives into clear operational plans and overseeing their delivery.
• Designing and implementing processes, procedures and logistics strategies across the full project lifecycle.
• Managing budgets, resources and delivery performance, ensuring cost-effective execution.
• Developing and maintaining risk mitigation and contingency plans to support uninterrupted operations.
• Ensuring all permits, permissions and clearances are in place for safe delivery of site activities.
• Monitoring and reporting on operational performance, identifying trends and driving continuous improvement.
• Managing mobilisation and demobilisation activities, ensuring structured and efficient transitions.
• Building and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships across project teams and the wider estate, supporting integration and continuous improvement across the programme.

You’ll need to have:

• Proven experience delivering construction logistics, site establishment, or infrastructure projects within large, complex, and regulated environments (Defence/Nuclear desirable).
• Demonstrable experience managing contractors, consultants, and supply chain partners across major projects.
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies and full project lifecycle delivery (concept through to handover).
• Experience in developing and implementing logistics strategies and operational delivery frameworks.
• Strong knowledge of CDM regulations, health and safety, and environmental standards.
• Ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders, combined with strong communication, analytical, and problem‑solving capabilities.

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 within the role.