Project Director

Overview

As Project Director in Wates Construction London, you will lead strategic and operational delivery of major education projects under DfE frameworks. You will guide multiple project teams, ensure governance and excellent performance across safety, quality, programme, and commercial outcomes, and act as a senior contact for clients and stakeholders. The role blends leadership, complex portfolio management, and a clear impact on communities through education facilities. You will work within a values‑led, collaborative culture focused on wellbeing, sustainability, and social value.

Pay / Benefits

• competitive salary
• executive‑level benefits
• long‑term career progression

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee delivery of major school and education projects within the DfE framework portfolio
• Drive best‑in‑class performance across safety, quality, programme, and commercial outcomes
• Provide inspirational leadership to Project Directors, Project Managers, and site teams
• Ensure robust governance, risk management, and compliance with statutory and contractual requirements
• Build strong, trusted relationships with DfE, consultants, supply chain partners, and internal stakeholders
• Collaborate with Commercial, Pre‑Construction, Design, and Sustainability teams
• Promote and embed Wates’ values, behaviours, and commitment to wellbeing and social value
• Contribute to regional strategy, continuous improvement, and long‑term business growth

Key requirements

• Senior operational leadership experience within a Tier 1 main contractor
• Experience delivering schools or education projects, ideally within DfE or similar public‑sector frameworks
• Proven track record managing complex, multi‑project portfolios in live or sensitive environments
• Strong management of programme certainty, risk, and commercial performance
• Inclusive, values‑led leader capable of motivating and developing high‑performing teams
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑management skills with client and board level confidence

• leadership
• stakeholder management
• communication
• programme management
• risk management
• governance and compliance

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