Project Director

Location: London
Industry: Data Centre Construction
Preferred Background: M&E (Mechanical & Electrical)

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Project Director to join our team in London. The ideal candidate will take charge during the preconstruction and procurement stages and lead the project through to successful completion. Reporting to the Operations Director, this role requires a strong leader who embodies our company values: integrity, dependability, safety, pride, and quality.

Key Responsibilities:

Preconstruction and Procurement Phase:

• Collaborate with the Operations Director to determine project staffing and monitor performance.
• Develop a business plan, cost control system, cash flow, and billable schedules.
• Create procurement, design, and construction plans, including S-curves and histograms.
• Liaise with clients and design teams on procurement and engineering issues.
• Develop and implement project safety and quality plans.
• Oversee the mobilisation of subcontractors, labour, and site establishment.
• Ensure team familiarity with contract requirements (JCT, NEC, etc.).
• Integrate the project team into the broader site team and build strong relationships with key stakeholders.

Project Execution Phase:

• Agree on a training plan for staff and operatives in conjunction with the Project Manager.
• Manage the day-to-day activities on site to ensure timely and cost-effective project delivery.
• Ensure compliance with programme, material deliveries, engineering, quality, and safety standards.
• Conduct audits in accordance with the design plan.
• Hold regular meetings with clients, subcontractors, and project teams to review progress and compliance.
• Manage cost and sales control in collaboration with QS & Lead Engineers.
• Measure productivity and maintain project progress control.
• Submit monthly reports to the Operations Director.
• Minimise company exposure to risk and ensure all health, safety, and welfare obligations are met.

Project Completion Phase:

• Oversee testing, commissioning, and handover processes in line with the Quality Plan.
• Ensure all systems are demonstrated to the client and building control officer.
• Prepare and agree on the final account with the QS.
• Produce a project close-out report and archive project files as required.
• Maintain client contact during the warranty period and handle post-contract activities.

People Management:

• Demonstrate strong people management skills and ensure adherence to company policies and EHS training.
• Set objectives, monitor progress, and conduct performance reviews for team members.
• Act as a mentor and provide training development opportunities.

General:

• Propose and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure project leads maintain a site diary and uphold the company's confidential information policy.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with all project stakeholders to ensure successful project completion.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong awareness of Health, Safety, and Environmental systems, including HRA requirements.
• Detailed understanding of the Project Director role, particularly for large projects (£100m+).
• Strong commercial acumen and industry-leading people management skills.
• Knowledge of quality and commissioning processes in the data centre environment.
• Excellent problem-solving and diplomatic skills under pressure.

Behaviours and Attitudes:

• Ability to prioritise workload effectively.
• Commitment to ongoing personal development.
• Acceptance of responsibility and accountability.