Associate Partner (Project Management) - Oxford

About Ward Williams: We’re a growing consultancy that’s built its reputation on doing things a bit differently. Over the last 10 years, we’ve doubled in size, become one of the first consultancies globally to achieve B Corp status, and earned a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development - all things we’re really proud of. We place just as much value on how we work as what we’ve achieved. No overly corporate culture, no being boxed into one sector, and no being just another name in a large team. Instead, we give people the space to do good work, build strong relationships, and shape their own path. This is a genuine senior opportunity within a growing office. Our Oxford team is still developing, so this role isn’t about stepping into something established — it’s about helping to build it.

As an Associate Partner, you’ll play a key role in:

• Growing the Oxford presence
• Building and strengthening client relationships
• Leading on delivery of complex projects
• Supporting and influencing the wider team

You’ll have the backing of the wider Ward Williams business, but with the autonomy and visibility that comes with being part of a smaller, ambitious team.

Who are we looking for: We’re looking for someone who is comfortable operating at a senior level - someone who enjoys both delivering work and helping shape what sits around it. You’ll likely already be working at Associate level (or ready to step into it), with strong experience and confidence in managing clients and projects.

What tends to work well at Ward Williams:

• Impact – you want to be part of something that matters
• Imagination – you’re open to new ways of working and thinking
• Authenticity – you’re straightforward, collaborative, and genuine in how you work

What is it like to work in this office? You’ll be part of a close-knit team of Project Managers, Quantity Surveyors and Building Surveyors, working collaboratively and supporting each other. It’s a growing office, which means:

• Your contribution is visible
• Your input genuinely matters
• There’s a clear opportunity to develop further as the team expands

Your profile: Key Attributes

• To support, develop, and assist with the provision of project management services, including technical advice, pre- and post-contract project management services.
• Support delivery on complex, multi-phase schemes including 3,000+ homes, highways, utilities, schools, and community facilities.
• Oversee contract administration, programme management, cost control, risk, and change management.
• Manage utilities coordination and approvals (water, gas, electric, communications).
• Administer Section 106 and Section 278 obligations and statutory approvals.
• Coordinate contractors, consultants and utility providers, ensuring clear scopes and milestones.
• Produce structured client reporting including weekly/monthly updates, risk registers, and programme forecasts.
• Maintain programme control, quality assurance, and site safety.

Candidate Profile

• Background in contractor or civils delivery (infrastructure, highways or utilities preferred).
• MRICS qualification or equivalent professional qualification (e.g. MCIOB, APM).
• Civil engineering qualification or equivalent experience (desirable).
• Proven track record delivering large-scale residential or infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of utilities delivery and statutory approval processes.
• Experience using planning tools such as Asta, Primavera or MS Project.
• Experience of contract administration under NEC, ICC or JCT frameworks.
• Strong communicator, comfortable working with clients, consultants, contractors and stakeholders.
• Ambitious, proactive, and motivated by helping to build and grow a new office.

What we offer employees:

• Hybrid and flexible working
• Competitive salary
• Tailored development and progression
• 38 days holiday (including bank holidays)
• Birthday off
• Enhanced family leave
• 6% employer pension
• Life cover (3x salary)
• Private GP and wellbeing support
• Volunteering days and social events

Interested? Apply with your CV, or get in touch for an informal chat.

Vanessa Channings, Senior People Manager

Email: vanessachannings@wardwilliams.uk

Recruitment process:

• CV review
• Initial Teams call
• In-person interview

Be part of a business that values you - not just for what you do, but how you do it. Ward Williams is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.