Associare Director - Project Management

Job Description Overview

A senior technical advisory role shaping a £300m+ education portfolio. AtkinsRéalis is a key partner on the Department for Education’s Technical Advisory Services 2025 framework, supporting delivery of a national programme exceeding 100 school projects. In the North West, our portfolio of 12 live school replacement projects (growing to 15–18) requires a senior leader to provide technical direction, commercial oversight, and client assurance.

This Associate Director role offers the opportunity to play a key part in delivering a nationally important education programme while operating at an Associate Director level with influence across a regional landscape.

• Act as regional technical advisor lead across all NW DfE projects, ensuring alignment with framework and national delivery standards.
• Provide assurance across project lifecycle including governance, risk, and delivery strategies.
• Lead gateway reviews and portfolio‑level performance improvements.
• Direct and influence project teams (without line management) to ensure consistent, best‑in‑class delivery.

• Ensure seamless integration with the national delivery team.
• Apply in‑depth knowledge of the DfE Technical Advisory Services 2025 framework.
• Drive consistency in process, reporting, and delivery approach across all projects.

• Provide oversight of project finances across the portfolio.
• Ensure robust management of fees, scope, and variations.
• Support delivery of 90% utilisation targets and commercial performance.
• Maintain accurate monthly reporting aligned to the business operating cycle.
• Contribute to the national P&L through disciplined financial management.

• Act as a trusted advisor to senior client stakeholders.
• Build strong relationships with regional DfE leadership.
• Enhance AtkinsRéalis’ reputation as a strategic partner within the framework.

• Proven experience in project or programme management within the built environment.
• Strong background in public sector and education projects.
• Demonstrable knowledge of the DfE Technical Advisory Services framework.
• Experience operating at portfolio or multi‑project level.
• Strong commercial awareness, including fee, scope, and variation management.
• Experience delivering robust reporting into business P&L cycles.
• Highly effective client‑facing and stakeholder management skills.
• Chartered status (APM, RICS, or equivalent).

• Experience working on national frameworks or large‑scale programmes.
• JCT contract experience.

This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. If necessary, it will be discussed with you  vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require candidates to provide proof of residency in the UK of 5 years or longer.

You will enjoy competitive salaries, employee rewards, and a range of benefits tailored to health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle choices. Training and professional development opportunities are available, and a hybrid working culture with flexible holiday allowances supports a balance between work and personal life.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer and value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and ability. We are a Disability Confident Leader and are committed to offering an interview to all applicants who have a disability and meet the essential criteria.