At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting £60 million student accommodation project and ensure timely, high-quality delivery.
- Company: Join Watkin Jones, the UK's leading residential developer with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, hybrid working, and exclusive shopping discounts.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career growth opportunities in a forward-thinking company.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on vibrant communities and sustainable development.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 4, HND, or Degree in relevant field with strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
Watkin Jones is seeking an experienced and driven Project Manager to lead the delivery of an exciting £60 million student accommodation development in Guildford. Supported by the University of Surrey, the scheme will provide high-quality living accommodation for up to 366 students, comprising 105 studios and 261 en‑suite bedrooms arranged around vibrant communal kitchen and social spaces. You will be responsible for ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards, while maintaining profitability and delivering value for our clients. As Project Manager, you will oversee the management and coordination of site operations, subcontractors, consultants, and key stakeholders, acting as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the project lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
- Project Delivery & Client Management
- Act as the primary point of contact for clients, ensuring clear communication and excellent service throughout the project.
- Work with the Construction Director to ensure the successful delivery of construction projects.
- Develop and present project progress reports internally and to clients.
- Assist the Construction Director in formulating and agreeing contract programmes and project delivery strategies.
- Ensure design development progresses in line with programme requirements.
- Manage project risks, maintaining and communicating risk registers and mitigation plans.
- Site & Construction Management
- Oversee and coordinate site activities, subcontractors, and project teams.
- Ensure compliance with all health and safety, security, and fire safety requirements.
- Delegate work packages effectively across the project team.
- Attend and contribute to all pre‑order, pre‑start, handover, and stakeholder meetings.
- Monitor procurement activities to ensure orders are placed in a timely manner to maintain programme deadlines.
About you: You will hold an NVQ Level 4, HND, or Degree in Construction, Development, Project Management, or a related discipline, together with a valid SMSTS qualification and CSCS card. You will possess a strong understanding of the full construction build sequence and industry best practice in project management, with the ability to effectively oversee projects from pre‑construction through to completion. A good awareness of current market trends and developments within the construction and development industry is essential, while knowledge of contract law would be advantageous. Strong IT skills are also required, including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, enabling you to manage reporting, documentation, and project communications effectively.
Why Choose Watkin Jones Group? Watkin Jones Group is the UK’s leading developer, builder, and manager of residential‑for‑rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000+ homes developed and in‑build across over 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 18,500 units across 58 schemes, representing approximately £1.7 bn of assets under management. Joining us means becoming part of a company that’s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We’re committed to creating high‑quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development. At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people.
Here’s what we can offer you:
- Work‑Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), hybrid working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.
- Wellbeing: Access to ‘Your Wellbeing’ programme & OpenUp – a confidential wellbeing platform.
- Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
- Benefits: Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.
This is an opportunity to take on a high‑impact role within a forward‑thinking company. In return, we offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the chance to work on major projects that shape the built environment.
Project Manager in Guildford employer: Watkin Jones PLC
Watkin Jones PLC is an exceptional employer located in Chester, offering a dynamic work environment where creativity and collaboration thrive. As a Design Manager, you will benefit from robust career advancement opportunities, a discretionary annual bonus, and a health cash plan, all while working on high-profile projects that make a real impact in the Build-to-Rent sector. Join a team that values innovation and supports your professional growth in a vibrant city.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager in Guildford
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Watkin Jones PLC, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Project Manager at Watkin Jones PLC.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Watkin Jones PLC
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
