Senior Planner in Manchester

We’re currently supporting a growing project management and consultancy business in the appointment of a Senior Planner to join their Manchester team, working on major programmes within the power and energy sector, including large-scale energy infrastructure and network investment projects. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Planner to support clients through effective programme management, planning and project controls across complex, high-value projects. The role would suit a confident and commercially aware Planner who enjoys working with clients, contractors and multidisciplinary teams and is looking to take ownership of complex programmes while continuing to develop their career. The Opportunity You’ll be responsible for developing and managing project programmes across a range of major projects, providing clear insight into programme performance and helping project teams identify and manage risks, delays and opportunities. Working closely with Project Managers, clients, consultants and contractors, you'll play an important role in providing programme certainty and supporting successful project delivery. You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to the development of the wider planning team, including mentoring more junior colleagues and helping to improve planning and programme management practices. Key Responsibilities * Develop and manage project programmes using Primavera P6 and Microsoft Project. * Monitor programme progress, critical paths, key milestones and performance. * Analyse programme data and provide clear reporting and recommendations to project teams and clients. * Identify potential delays, risks and opportunities, supporting the development of mitigation strategies. * Review contractor programmes and contribute to programme assurance and project controls. * Work collaboratively with clients, contractors, consultants and wider project teams throughout the project lifecycle. * Produce programme reports, dashboards and schedule updates. * Support the continued development of planning and programme management best practice. * Mentor and support junior planners, helping to build capability across the wider team. About You We're looking to speak with experienced Planners who have worked within construction, infrastructure or major capital projects and are confident managing complex programmes and engaging with a range of stakeholders. You'll ideally have: * Strong experience in project planning and programme management. * Good working knowledge of Primavera P6; Microsoft Project experience is beneficial. * Strong skills across programme analysis, scheduling and reporting. * An understanding of project controls, programme governance and assurance. * Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. * The ability to work collaboratively while confidently influencing project teams and stakeholders. * A proactive and solutions-focused approach to project delivery. Experience across infrastructure, real estate, regeneration or public sector projects would be advantageous, as would knowledge of NEC contracts and programme assurance. Professional membership or progress towards a relevant qualification, such as APM, AACE, ICE or equivalent, would also be beneficial. What's On Offer * The opportunity to work on major, high-profile capital and infrastructure programmes. * Exposure to complex projects across a range of sectors. * A collaborative and supportive consultancy environment. * Genuine opportunities for career progression and professional development. * The chance to mentor and develop junior members of the planning team. * Flexible hybrid working. * Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. This is a great opportunity for an experienced Senior Planner looking to take on greater responsibility, work alongside experienced project professionals and contribute to the delivery of some of the UK's most significant projects. If you're considering your next move and would like to find out more, get in touch for a confidential conversation