Manager of Projects

Summary: The Head of Projects is responsible for the strategic leadership, management and successful delivery of the company's project portfolio, ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget and to the required quality standards. The role will provide leadership and direction to Project Managers and wider project delivery teams, driving operational performance, commercial control, resource utilisation and continuous improvement across all project activities. Reporting to the Projects and Engineering Director, playing key role within the Engineered Systems & Solutions (ESS) business function. The Head of Projects will ensure alignment between project delivery and wider business objectives, developing robust processes, strengthening project governance and maximising commercial and operational performance. Key Focus: Responsible for the overall project delivery within NSI UK. Effective management of client relationship, programme, cost and project risk. Coordination between engineering, commercial, procurement and site delivery teams. Stakeholder management across clients, supply chain partners and internal project teams. Supporting delivery of projects across the UK within the ESS business as required. Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership Develop and implement the overall project delivery strategy, aligned with business objectives. Provide leadership and direction to the Projects function, including Project Managers and supporting teams. Establish clear objectives, performance measures and accountability across the project portfolio. Identify opportunities to improve project delivery capability, operational efficiency and business growth. Support business development activities, tenders and client engagement where required. Project Delivery & Performance Oversee the delivery of multiple projects, ensuring they are completed safely, on time, within budget and to specification. Maintain accountability for Client, Time, Cost and QESH across all projects. Monitor project performance, milestones, programme delivery and resource requirements. Ensure effective project planning, scheduling, risk management and reporting. Provide oversight of project mobilisation, execution, commissioning and handover. Intervene where projects are underperforming, implementing corrective actions to protect delivery and commercial outcomes. Ensure appropriate project governance and reporting structures are maintained. Commercial & Financial Management Take overall responsibility for project financial performance, budgets, forecasts and profitability. Monitor project costs, margins, variations, change control and commercial risks. Work closely with Commercial, Finance and Procurement teams to ensure effective cost management. Ensure contractual obligations are understood and managed throughout the project lifecycle. Identify and mitigate commercial exposure, ensuring opportunities for additional revenue and value are maximised. People & Resource Management Lead, develop and motivate project delivery teams, promoting a culture of accountability and high performance. Oversee resource planning, workforce allocation and utilisation across the project portfolio. Identify skills gaps and future resource requirements, supporting recruitment, succession planning and professional development. Develop the capabilities of Project Managers and encourage consistency in project management standards. Ensure that project personnel have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities to deliver effectively and efficiently. Promote effective communication and collaboration across departments and business units. Health, Safety, Quality & Compliance Ensure all projects comply with relevant legislation, industry standards and company policies. Promote a proactive health, safety and environmental culture across project teams and delivery sites. Ensure appropriate quality assurance, quality control and project documentation processes are implemented. Oversee project risk management and ensure appropriate mitigation measures are in place. Client & Stakeholder Management Develop and maintain strong relationships with key clients, suppliers, subcontractors and stakeholders. Act as a senior escalation point for significant project issues and client concerns. Ensure client expectations are managed effectively and service delivery standards are maintained. Work collaboratively with internal departments, affiliated technology partners and third party contractors to ensure effective project execution and customer satisfaction. Continuous Improvement Review and improve project management processes, systems and procedures. Consistent project reporting, performance monitoring and governance frameworks to be maintained Identify opportunities to improve productivity, reduce costs and enhance project profitability. Encourage the adoption of best practice, innovation and lessons learned across the project portfolio. Responsible for the continuous improvement of all QA/QC throughout the project life cycle Skills & Experience Required Degree qualified in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering with a minimum of 10 years’ experience in a design and build project delivery role, water industry experience preferred. Recognised project management qualification at APM “professional” level or above (e.g. APM PMQ, PPQ or Chartered Project Professional), or an equivalent PMI/PRINCE2-style certification Flexibility and mobility to attend client meetings and construction sites throughout the UK Significant experience in senior project management or project leadership within an engineering, construction, water, infrastructure or industrial services environment. Proven experience overseeing multiple complex projects and managing a substantial project portfolio. Demonstrable experience leading and developing Project Managers and multidisciplinary teams. Strong commercial and financial management experience, including project budgets, forecasting, cost control and profitability. Experience managing contracts, subcontractors, suppliers and client relationships. Strong understanding of project planning, programme management, risk management and project governance. Knowledge of relevant health, safety, quality and environmental requirements. Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills. Nijhuis Saur Industries UK & Ireland are an equal opportunity employer; we are committed to providing equal opportunities in all aspects of employment in line with the Equality Act 2010. Nijhuis Saur Industries UK & Ireland are committed to maintaining Environmental & Social Impact goals: To reach Net Zero emissions across our value chain by 2040. To continuously meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, accountability, maintaining B-Corp Certification. To be a socially responsible company creating a positive impact to all stakeholders including workers, communities, customers, and our planet