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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic planning and scheduling for major infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join Southern Water, transforming the UK's water industry with innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable solutions for communities.
- Qualifications: Experience in PMO planning and expertise in Primavera P6 required.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to your development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Falmer, hybrid working
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 37 hours
Salary: to be discussed at screening stage
Closing Date: 2026-01-12
About the Role
Our Major Projects team is at the heart of delivering critical infrastructure that shapes the future of our business. As the PMO Planning Lead, you’ll play a pivotal role in driving strategic planning and scheduling across a portfolio of high-profile projects. This is a leadership position where your expertise will ensure robust schedules, governance, and delivery excellence. You’ll lead a talented team of planners and work closely with project managers, engineers, procurement teams, and external stakeholders to optimise efficiency and value throughout the project lifecycle.
Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership for all programme planning and scheduling activities across major projects.
- Expert in Primavera P6 (administration and super‑user level).
- Establish and maintain an integrated portfolio‑level schedule, ensuring robust governance and baseline control.
- Oversee preparation, maintenance, and analysis of project schedules, including critical path and what‑if scenario planning.
- Monitor progress, identify risks, and implement effective mitigation strategies to prevent schedule slippage.
- Develop and establish a portfolio Work Breakdown Structure (WBS).
- Manage and maintain P6 governance (access rights, global codes, calendars, layouts, etc.).
- Lead and mentor a high‑performing planning team, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Additional Requirements
- Familiarity with NEC contract planning clauses and regulatory reporting requirements.
- Represent the PMO at executive boards, articulating schedule performance, risks, and mitigations.
Essential What you’ll bring to the role
- Proven experience leading PMO planning within large‑scale infrastructure or capital programmes.
- Strong leadership skills with a track record of managing and developing teams.
- Expert knowledge of Primavera P6 and planning governance processes.
- Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
Desirable
- Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
- Professional certifications such as PMI‑SP, AMP, or PRINCE2.
- Experience with Earned Value Management (EVM) and schedule assurance techniques (e.g., DCMA 14‑point assessment).
Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025‑30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed. We understand that great talent comes in many forms. If this role excites you and you share our commitment to delivering sustainable solutions for our communities, please apply—even if your experience doesn’t perfectly match every requirement. We’ll support your growth and development.
Our Commitment to Diversity
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Major Projects PMO Planning Lead in Brighton employer: Southern Water
Contact Detail:
Southern Water Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Major Projects PMO Planning Lead in Brighton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that PMO Planning Lead role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by practising common questions related to project management and planning. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence. Remember, showcasing your expertise in Primavera P6 will definitely set you apart!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. We love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who are excited about transforming the water industry. Let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Major Projects PMO Planning Lead in Brighton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with PMO planning and Primavera P6. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Leadership Skills: As a PMO Planning Lead, your leadership experience is crucial. Share examples of how you've managed teams and driven project success in your previous roles. We love to see candidates who can inspire and mentor others!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and experiences. Clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southern Water
✨Know Your Tools Inside Out
As a PMO Planning Lead, you'll need to showcase your expertise in Primavera P6. Brush up on its features and functionalities, especially around administration and governance. Be ready to discuss how you've used it in past projects to drive efficiency and manage schedules.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've led teams in the past, focusing on mentoring and fostering a culture of accountability. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you motivated your team to overcome them.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with Southern Water's mission and the significance of their major projects. Be prepared to discuss how your role as PMO Planning Lead will contribute to their goals, particularly in enhancing sustainability and service excellence.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially regarding risk management and schedule slippage. Think of real-life scenarios where you had to implement mitigation strategies and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
