Planning Lead​/Planning Manager

We are currently seeking an experienced Planning Lead to join our clients project team in Blyth, United Kingdom. This role will be responsible for leading all project planning and scheduling activities for one of Europe's largest Data Centre projects, ensuring programmes are developed, managed, and delivered in line with project requirements.

Requirements

Lead and manage all planning and scheduling activities across the project lifecycle

Develop, maintain, and manage integrated project programmes in line with project objectives

Coordinate with Project Managers, Package Managers, design teams, and subcontractors to align schedules

Monitor project progress, identify delays, and implement mitigation strategies to ensure programme delivery

Prepare and update short-term and long-term construction schedules

Conduct schedule risk analysis and support project teams in managing programme risks and opportunities

Chair and attend Planning Meetings, Progress Meetings, and Project Reviews

Provide regular progress reports, programme updates, and critical path analysis to senior management

Review subcontractor programmes and ensure alignment with overall project timelines

Support commercial and project teams with programme-related inputs for claims, variations, and reporting

Ensure all planning documentation is maintained and up to date

Proactively identify and resolve scheduling, sequencing, and coordination issues

Drive continuous improvement in planning processes and tools across the project

Skills & Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or similar discipline

Minimum 7+ years' experience in project planning within construction or engineering

Strong experience developing and managing programmes on large-scale construction projects

Proficiency in planning software (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project or similar)

Excellent analytical, organisational, and problem-solving skills

Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities

In-depth understanding of construction sequencing, methodologies, and project delivery

Proven ability to manage complex schedules and deliver projects on programme

Data centre, industrial, or mission-critical project experience is advantageous

Benefits

Opportunity to work for a market leader in the Data centre industry

Working on large scale data centre projects

Collaborative team working environments

Career progression and development supported

Competitive salary packages