Shutdown Manager

Job description

• Lead the full planning lifecycle for a site-wide shutdown, including scope definition, schedule development, risk assessments, and cost estimation.
• Work closely with engineering, maintenance, operations, and HSE teams to build a robust and compliant plan.
• Develop detailed execution schedules using appropriate planning tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project).
• Identify critical-path activities and optimise resource allocation to minimise downtime.
• Ensure all materials, permits, manpower, and equipment are organised ahead of execution.

• Oversee day-to-day shutdown activities, ensuring safety, quality, cost, and schedule targets are met.
• Provide strong on-site leadership to contractors, maintenance teams, and engineering personnel.
• Ensure compliance with COMAH safety case requirements and site-level process safety standards.
• Manage progress reporting, daily coordination meetings, and live problem resolution.
• Support statutory inspections, mechanical integrity checks, and commissioning phases.

• Champion a zero‑harm culture across the shutdown workforce.
• Lead safety briefings, toolbox talks, and permit-to-work processes.
• Ensure all work is carried out in accordance with LOTO, isolations, confined space procedures, and hot work controls.
• Support and participate in incident investigations and safety audits.

• Manage shutdown budgets, track spending, and control scope changes.
• Work with procurement teams to manage contractor contracts, variations, and invoicing.
• Maintain accurate financial reporting against forecast.

• Ensure all shutdown documentation is accurately completed and handed over.
• Oversee QA/QC checks, inspection records, and technical documentation.
• Support plant commissioning and return-to-service processes.

• Proven experience delivering major shutdowns or turnarounds in the chemical, refinery, or high‑hazard process industries
  .
• Strong maintenance background (mechanical, electrical, or multi‑skilled).
• Demonstrable understanding of COMAH regulations and process safety principles.
• Experience leading large contractor teams in a high‑pressure shutdown environment.
• Skilled in shutdown planning tools (Primavera P6 or MS Project).
• Strong ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders and maintain clear communication across departments.
• Excellent problem‑solving capability, especially under time‑critical conditions.
• Ability to manage budgets, track spend, and report financial performance.
• Strong documentation, QA/QC, and handover management skills.

• Engineering qualification (HNC/HND/Degree).
• NEBOSH or IOSH certification.
• Experience with statutory inspections and pressure systems regulations.
• Experience on top-tier COMAH sites.