Planning Manager

Overview

As Planning Manager you will lead strategic planning across a growing Substations portfolio, guiding multiple projects from tender through contract delivery. You’ll mentor planning teams, ensure robust, achievable programmes, and align planning with business objectives. The role involves regular site and stakeholder engagement across the South East, delivering data-driven insights to support project success. You’ll operate in a leadership capacity within Planning and Project Controls, shaping efficient design, procurement, and construction strategies. This is a high-impact role at the heart of Balfour Beatty’s energy transition.

Pay / Benefits

• Competitive salary + bonus opportunities
• 25 days’ annual leave + bank holidays
• Up to 7% employer pension contribution
• Professional fees paid + chartership pathways
• Remote flexibility up to 40%
• Life assurance, EAP, and family-friendly policies

Responsibilities

• Identify planning scope, constraints and contract requirements to shape the programme
• Lead tender planning, ensuring logical sequencing and efficient strategy
• Oversee development of deliverables (programmes, planning philosophy, reports) and align Tender Programmes with organizational goals
• Provide strategic guidance during contract stage and manage the Contract Programme
• Display and evaluate critical path, maintain baselines and drive change control
• Manage labour, equipment and materials to meet objectives while minimizing costs/delays
• Manage contracts with subcontractors and suppliers and monitor performance
• Produce project data and KPIs to support data-driven decision-making
• Provide leadership and mentorship to junior planners and team members

Key requirements

• Analytical and problem solving skills
• Strong data/process management
• Excellent communication, negotiation and conflict resolution abilities
• Leadership and mentorship experience
• Proficient with Excel, MS Project, Primavera P6 or ASTA
• Extensive understanding of construction project management principles and scheduling

• Analytical thinking
• Leadership
• Communication
• Excel
• MS Project
• Primavera P6

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