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Scope of Role: Project Planner
The Project Planner is a pivotal role within the Client/Contracts Management team, reporting directly to the Estimating and Commercial Manager. This role is essential for integrating project and contractual planning at the front end of the business, providing clear direction for operational delivery. The Project Planner is responsible for developing, monitoring, and maintaining project schedules and budgets across all contractual forms, including NEC and other frameworks. This role ensures alignment across design, engineering, procurement, production, and construction activities to meet client expectations and contractual commitments.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Project and Contractual Planning
Develop and maintain comprehensive project schedules, integrating key milestones for design, engineering, procurement, production, and construction activities. Track resources and costs to monitor project progress. Align project timelines and budgets with contract specifications, ensuring compliance with subcontracts such as JCT, NEC, and other contractual frameworks. Perform critical path analysis, resource levelling, and time-risk assessments to provide accurate and achievable project schedules. Collaborate with the Contracts team to translate client requirements and bid deliverables into actionable plans for operations and production. Work with the Contracts team, Production Planner, and Finance team to assist with checking project and portfolio financial forecasting and orders in hand.
Client and Stakeholder Collaboration
Work closely with clients, Contracts Managers, and Business Development teams to ensure project plans reflect client objectives and agreed timelines.
Regularly review and update project schedules to incorporate scope changes, variations, or unforeseen challenges, ensuring proactive communication with clients and stakeholders.
Act as the primary planning interface for the Client/Contracts team, providing clear and concise updates on schedule progress, risks, and mitigation measures.
Risk Management and Reporting
Drive the implementation and continuous improvement of planning tools and methodologies, leveraging software such as Microsoft Project or Primavera P6 to enhance scheduling accuracy and efficiency.
Support the Contracts and Operations teams by providing training and mentorship in planning best practices, ensuring a consistent and professional approach across the organisation.
Skills, Knowledge, and Attributes
Minimum 5 years of experience in project planning within a manufacturing, construction, or engineering environment.
Strong knowledge of contractual arrangements, subcontracts, and frameworks such as JCT, NEC, with the ability to interpret and implement contract planning requirements.
Proven expertise in developing and managing complex project schedules using tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or equivalent software.
Solid understanding of resource management, critical path methodology, and risk analysis in project environments.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with clients and internal stakeholders at all levels.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
Commercially astute, with a clear understanding of how planning decisions impact contractual obligations, budgets, and overall business performance.
Knowledge of portfolio and enterprise planning systems is advantageous.
